The Difference Between Google AdWords & AdSense

A lot of people who call me are confused about the difference between Google’s AdWords and AdSense programs. So, I thought I’d give you a quick lessons on the differences.

AdWords is an advertising program where you bid on keywords and write ads that appear on Google when people type in those keywords. When someone clicks on your ad, you pay Google however much you bid on the keyword.

AdSense is a program that lets Google put AdWord ads directly on your web site. When someone clicks on the ad on your site, you make money.

As a rule of thumb, AdSense is a good idea if you have a content site (meaning you aren’t selling anything). It lets you make money from your site.

But putting them on your business site is a bad idea. Here’s why:

By putting AdSense ads on your site, you would be basically become a billboard for your competitors.

Imagine Home Depot putting up a large billboard in front of its stores advertising for Lowe's.

That’s what a site owner is doing when they put AdSense ads on their site.

So, remember: if you have a content site, AdSense is a good way to earn a little extra money. But if you're selling something, forget AdSense...

…but by all means use AdWords. It’s a great way to get traffic to your site…in a hurry.

Have a great weekend,

Carlon Haas