Step-by-Step Guide: Adding Users to Your Google Ads Account

Follow these steps to add someone to your Google Ads account:

1. Sign in to your Google Ads account.
2. Click the Tools icon in the top right corner and select "Account access."
3. Click the plus "+" button to add a new user.
4. Enter the email address of the person you want to add to your Google Ads account.
5. Select the access level for the new user:
   • Admin: Full control over the account, including the ability to add or remove users.
   • Standard: Can view and edit campaigns, but cannot manage user access.
   • Read-only: Can view account data but cannot make changes.
6. Click "Send invitation."

The invited user will receive an email with a link to accept the invitation. Once they accept, they will have access to your Google Ads account based on the level you assigned.

For example, if you want to add a freelance PPC specialist to help manage your campaigns, you would enter their email address and select the appropriate access level—likely "Standard" or "Admin," depending on their role and your trust level.

It's essential to regularly review and manage user access to maintain account security. You can edit or revoke access at any time by returning to the "Account access" section in your Google Ads account settings.

For more information on managing user access and linking accounts, refer to the official Google Ads Help documentation.

Understanding Google Ads Account Access Levels

When adding someone to your Google Ads account, it's crucial to understand the different access levels available. Each level grants specific permissions, allowing you to control what actions users can take within your account.

The three access levels are:

1. Admin: Users with admin access have full control over the account. They can create, edit, and delete campaigns, as well as manage billing information and user access. This level is best suited for account owners or trusted team members who need complete control.
2. Standard: Users with standard access can view and edit campaigns, ad groups, ads, and keywords. They can also view billing information but cannot make changes to it. This level is ideal for team members or external experts who need to manage and optimize your campaigns.
3. Read-only: Users with read-only access can view account data, such as campaigns, ad groups, and performance metrics, but they cannot make any changes. This level is suitable for stakeholders who need to stay informed about account performance but don't require the ability to make edits.

When deciding which access level to assign, consider the user's role and the level of trust you have in them. It's always better to start with the least privileged access level and grant additional permissions as needed.

For agencies or freelancers managing multiple client accounts, Google Ads offers the ability to link accounts to manager accounts. This allows for centralized access and management of multiple Google Ads accounts from a single interface.

Best Practices for Managing User Access in Google Ads

When adding users to your Google Ads account, keep these best practices in mind to ensure a smooth and secure collaboration:

• Limit admin access: Only grant admin access to a select few trusted individuals who absolutely need it. This minimizes the risk of unauthorized changes or accidental account modifications.
• Use specific email addresses: Avoid using generic or shared email addresses when adding users. Each user should have their own unique email address associated with their Google Ads access. This helps maintain accountability and makes it easier to track user activity.
• Regularly review user access: Periodically audit your account's user list to ensure that only those who need access still have it. Remove access for individuals who no longer require it, such as former employees or contractors.
• Communicate roles and responsibilities: Clearly define each user's role and responsibilities within the Google Ads account. This helps prevent confusion and ensures that everyone understands their part in managing and optimizing the campaigns.
• Provide training: If you're adding users who are new to Google Ads, offer training or resources to help them understand the platform and your specific account structure. This can help prevent mistakes and ensure a more efficient collaboration.

By following these best practices and carefully considering each user's access level, you can create a secure and productive environment for managing your Google Ads account.

Adding users to your Google Ads account is a simple process that allows you to collaborate effectively with team members, agencies, or freelancers. By assigning the appropriate access levels and regularly managing user permissions, you can maintain control over your account while leveraging the expertise of others to optimize your advertising efforts. With a well-organized approach to user management, you'll be better equipped to drive successful campaigns and achieve your marketing goals.