When it comes to creating a marketing campaign, UTM tracking codes are essential for identifying what kind of specific links or ads get clicked on the most. It tells you which landing pages on your website are getting the most interactions and can even track which links within a specific ad campaign are getting clicked on the most.
Whether you’re setting up a UTM code through an SEO campaign, social media marketing campaign, email marketing campaign, or another digital marketing service, it’s important to get as much data as possible.
Take a look below at our beginner’s guide to creating UTM codes and setting them up in Google Analytics.
UTM Codes in Google Analytics
What is a UTM tracking code?
A UTM tracking code is a unique URL which redirects to your website or target landing page. It helps business owners and digital marketing agencies identify which specific links and digital ads (like those in Pay-Per-Click campaigns) get clicked on or convert the most.
When a UTM tracking code is set up correctly, it can provide valuable information as to where your website visitors are coming from, how they are getting to your website, and what kind of products and/or services they are looking for. When used properly, UTM tracking codes in Google Analytics can be used to double, even quadruple your clicks and conversions. And that’s without spending additional money on your marketing campaigns!
Where do I use UTM tracking codes?
The short answer? Everywhere. But let us clarify this. UTM (formally named Urching Traffic Monitor) tracking codes are essentially small snippets of code. You add the UTM tracking code to a specified URL so that it can help you identify and track which specific ads or links are giving you the most action for your invested dollar.
Where can I create a UTM tracking code?
There are a few places you can create a UTM tracking for Google Analytics. Our preference is the one coming straight from the horse’s mouth, the Google’s free Campaign URL Builder below:
How to use UTM tracking codes
Setting up UTM tracking codes are really easy, even for those just getting their feet wet with digital marketing. But first thing’s first, you’ll need to make sure Google Analytics is setup correctly on your website.
Once this is complete, use Google’s free Campaign URL Builder by clicking the link above and follow the steps below:
- Install Google Analytics on your website.
- Visit Google’s free Campaign URL Builder page.
- Insert the website URL and campaign information.
- Create a unique UTM tracking code (aka campaign URL) for every ad or link.
- Use the UTM tracking codes in your marketing campaigns.
Yes, it’s that easy! Once your UTM tracking code’s are in place, wait a few days until potential customers have had a chance to click on your campaign URL. Once this time has passed, simply log into your Google Analytics and check under “Acquisition -> Campaigns” to measure your success.
Take a look at our screenshot below for reference:
Take your UTM tracking codes a set further…
To take your UTM tracking codes in Google Analytics a step further, we highly recommend setting up conversion tracking and campaign goals. From there, you’ll not only track the clicks coming to your website but you’ll also be able to track conversions (or leads), too.
Remember, setting up UTM tracking codes is a simple process made to look difficult. All you are doing is creating, then placing, a unique URL with tracking data on your ad campaigns.
In Conclusion
When it comes to getting the most out of your digital marketing campaign, it’s important to measure everything with UTM tracking codes. In the long run, UTM codes can help you save hundreds (if not, millions) of dollars and give you an amazing step ahead of your competitors.
Need help setting up your UTM tracking codes in Google Analytics? Contact us, the digital marketing specialists at Clicta Digital. We would love to help!
