Member Avatar for MktgRob

Does anyone have any experience/insights into the Linkedin DirectAds program? I have a client who thinks they might want to try it as an alternative to adwords in google. Any help would be appreciated.

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This thread dates to 2009, so some context is useful: LinkedIn’s DirectAds-era model has since moved to a self-serve platform (Campaign Manager) with objective-based campaigns, richer targeting, and native lead capture. raised the right question about targeting; ’s concern about access for smaller advertisers was true then, but the platform is now designed to support small tests as well as enterprise programs. For current product details see LinkedIn’s marketing pages and independent how‑to guides for setup and best practices (LinkedIn Marketing Solutions, ).

Key differences vs. search ads and useful playbook:

  • LinkedIn is audience-first (job title, company, seniority, skills, matched accounts, website retargeting). Google Search is intent-first. Choose LinkedIn when reaching decision-makers or running account-based B2B campaigns; choose search for immediate intent and many e-commerce queries.
  • Ad formats to consider: Sponsored Content (native feed ads), Message/Conversation Ads, Text/Dynamic ads, and Lead Gen Forms (native form fills tied to LinkedIn profiles). Install the LinkedIn Insight Tag before launching to track conversions and build retargeting lists.
  • Costs are usually higher than general display/search CPMs. Focus early on cost-per-qualified-lead and LTV rather than raw CPC.

Quick launch checklist:

  • Pick one clear objective (awareness, leads, website visits).
  • Build a professional-audience segment (job titles, companies, matched accounts).
  • Add the Insight Tag and test a Lead Gen Form variant.
  • Start with small daily budgets, A/B test creative, measure CPL and downstream revenue, then scale.

Cautions: audience sizes can be small if you over-segment; ad fatigue happens quickly with narrow targets; measure beyond last-click. If the client is consumer e-commerce, test Google Shopping/Facebook first — LinkedIn works best when the audience value justifies higher CPL.

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Member Avatar for boattraveller78

I did look at LinkedIn a while ago, but it seemed they were looking for advertisers willing to spend above 20K... Have had experience with Facebook and I would guess this is something similar.

Member Avatar for MktgRob

Based on the advertisers I have seen on there, I could believe the minimum buy-in requirement. I wonder if they will open it up a bit more in the future, perhaps allowing more targeted advertising within group pages?

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