Increased CPC -> WORSE estimated position?

[jgirard]

Subject says it all -- I am trying to figure out the best CPC to use. When I increase the CPC for a group, the estimated position gets WORSE (for instance, changing cost from $.50 to $1 changes estimated average position from 4.5 to 6.5).

Meanwhile, the projected clicks increase (as expected).

Any thoughts on what's going on here?

-John

[Robsp]

John,

Do not trust the estimator, just try different prices and positions. The estimator gives you a ball park idea on volume but not more than that.

[jgirard]

Sounds good, thanks -- just confusing that projected position goes exactly the opposite way that I would expect when increasing the CPC!

[Widestrides]

Yes, I've experienced that the estimator is a bit wacky also. It rarely is much of a measure of the reality of your position. It may say your average position is 3.4, but then you go and look and you are no where to be found or way down the list. But you can be sure that clicks will usually increase with a higher max. CPC. I don't think they want to give you a real definite read on what it would take to actually move to the top spot, or one of the top spots. Google likes to keep you guessing on that one.

[jgirard]

Makes sense -- thanks for your reply!

[Robsp]

I do not think it has anything to do with G not wanting to provide that info, it is just very dynamic and since they calculate with average CTR's your actual CTR has a very big impact here and can make a major difference.