Snapchat has emerged as a powerful digital advertising platform, especially for brands targeting younger audiences. With over 8 million users in Australia alone, Snapchat offers unique tools and immersive ad formats that can drive real engagement. For small to medium-sized businesses looking to diversify their digital marketing strategy, Snapchat ads can be an excellent addition—if used effectively.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through practical tips to run successful Snapchat ads that align with your brand goals and budget.
1. Understand Your Audience on Snapchat
Before creating your campaign, it’s crucial to understand who you’re speaking to. Snapchat’s user base skews younger, with a majority aged between 18 and 34. If your product or service resonates with this demographic, you’re off to a good start. But don’t just guess—use Snapchat’s Audience Insights and first-party data to refine your targeting.
2. Choose the Right Ad Format
Snapchat offers several ad formats, including:
- Snap Ads (full-screen videos or images)
- Story Ads (featured within Snapchat Discover)
- Collection Ads (showcase multiple products)
- AR Lenses (interactive branded filters)
- Commercials (non-skippable ads up to six seconds)
Consider what format aligns with your campaign goals. For instance, Snap Ads and Collection Ads are ideal for eCommerce, while AR Lenses work well for brand awareness.
3. Keep It Short and Snappy
Attention spans are short, especially on platforms like Snapchat. Your ad should grab attention within the first second. Keep videos under 10 seconds and use bold visuals and a clear message. Use large text and captions so the message lands even if sound is off.
4. Use Clear and Strong Calls-to-Action (CTAs)
Effective CTAs make a big difference. Whether it’s “Swipe Up to Shop,” “Learn More,” or “Book Now,” your CTA should be visible and action-oriented. Snapchat provides built-in swipe-up features that take users to a landing page, app download, or product page—use this functionality wisely.
5. Leverage Geo-Targeting and Audience Filters
Snapchat’s targeting capabilities allow you to segment by location, interests, demographics, and even device type. For local businesses in Sydney or other Australian cities, geo-targeting ensures your message reaches the right customers. Use Lookalike Audiences or retarget users who have previously interacted with your site or app.
6. Test Creatives and Refine Performance
Like any digital campaign, Snapchat ads require ongoing optimisation. Run A/B tests on different creatives, headlines, and CTAs to see what works best. Monitor key metrics such as swipe-up rate, engagement, and cost per acquisition (CPA). Make regular tweaks to improve performance.
7. Optimise Your Landing Pages
Don’t let a high-performing ad go to waste with a weak landing page. Ensure your landing pages load quickly, match the ad’s message, and offer a seamless user experience on mobile. If you’re sending traffic to a product or service page, make sure the page includes a clear CTA and easy navigation.
8. Align Snapchat With Your Broader Digital Strategy
Snapchat ads should complement your overall marketing strategy. If you’re running SEO or content marketing campaigns, ensure your messaging and branding are consistent across all channels. Cross-channel consistency builds trust and improves brand recall.
For broader support, explore all of Amire’s digital services to strengthen your marketing efforts.
9. Take Advantage of Snapchat Pixel
Install the Snapchat Pixel on your website to track conversions, build retargeting audiences, and better measure your return on ad spend. It’s a simple yet powerful tool to improve targeting and understand how users behave after interacting with your ad.
10. Start Small, Then Scale
You don’t need a massive budget to start. Snapchat allows daily budgets as low as $5. Start with a small, well-targeted campaign. Once you find what works, you can gradually increase spend to scale results.
Final Thoughts
Snapchat ads can be a cost-effective and engaging way for Australian businesses to connect with younger audiences. With the right approach—from targeting and creative to landing pages and tracking—you can drive meaningful results.
Want help setting up your Snapchat advertising or aligning it with your wider digital strategy? Contact Amire today for expert guidance.
