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How to add dynamic UTM Parameters to TikTok Ads for proper tracking in Google Analytics [2022]

Introduction

In this article, we will explore the importance of using dynamic UTM parameters in your TikTok ads to ensure data consistency in Google Analytics and properly track your attribution. This method not only helps in getting clearer insights into ad performance but also aids in understanding customer behavior post-click.

Understanding the Need for Dynamic UTM Parameters

As many digital marketers know, the ability to accurately track the performance of ads is crucial for sustaining growth and scaling an eCommerce or D2C (Direct to Consumer) business. Since the rollout of iOS 14.5, platforms like TikTok may not capture all purchases effectively, leading to discrepancies in conversion tracking. Reports from Google Analytics often highlight a 12.5% difference between first and last click conversions for TikTok ads, signaling that purchases may be performing better than initially perceived or not being tracked accurately at all.

As a Solution: Dynamic UTM Parameters

To address tracking inconsistencies, dynamic UTM parameters provide a structured way to record specific data points without entering them manually each time. TikTok ads come equipped with macros—akin to those found in Facebook ads—that can be used to dynamically input information into UTM parameters. There are seven macros available including:

  • Campaign Name
  • Campaign ID
  • Ad Group Name
  • Ad Name or Creative
  • Creative ID
  • Placement Type

Using these macros, you can create UTM links that automatically populate with the relevant campaign and ad information. This improves data accuracy and simplifies future reporting and analysis.

Setting Up Dynamic UTM Parameters in TikTok Ads

To properly set up dynamic UTM parameters in your TikTok ads, follow these simple steps:

  1. Navigate to the Ad Level: Begin by accessing the ad level of your TikTok account.

  2. Access the Destination Page: This is where you'll input your UTM parameters.

  3. Input Your UTM Parameters: For instance, a well-structured UTM could look like this:

    utm_source=tiktok&utm_medium=tiktok_ads&utm_campaign=(campaign_id)&utm_content=(creative_id)
    
    • In this example, (campaign_id) and (creative_id) are the dynamic parameters that will automatically fill in with the corresponding IDs when the ad is clicked.
  4. Check Google Analytics: After your ads run, you can evaluate your data in Google Analytics. Look at the campaigns and ad content reports to see how well specific ads are performing in terms of conversions.

This streamlined method offers data consistency and the ability to make informed decisions about scaling ads based on performance metrics you can trust.

Conclusion

Implementing dynamic UTMs into your TikTok advertising strategy not only provides you with reliable tracking but also facilitates better understanding and reporting of customer interactions. It allows you to evaluate the effectiveness of your campaigns accurately, paving the way for data-driven optimization of your marketing efforts.


Keyword

  • Dynamic UTM Parameters
  • TikTok Ads
  • Google Analytics
  • Conversion Tracking
  • eCommerce
  • Attribution
  • Macros
  • Campaign ID
  • Creative ID

FAQ

1. What are dynamic UTM parameters?
Dynamic UTM parameters allow you to automatically include specific campaign and ad-related data in the URLs of your ads, making tracking more precise.

2. Why should I use dynamic UTM parameters for TikTok ads?
Using dynamic UTM parameters ensures consistent and accurate tracking of ad performance in Google Analytics, allowing for better data analysis.

3. How do I set up dynamic UTM parameters in TikTok?
You can set up dynamic UTM parameters by navigating to the ad level, accessing the destination page, and inputting UTM parameters while incorporating dynamic macros.

4. What do I check after setting up my dynamic UTMs?
After your ads run, you should check Google Analytics for performance metrics like conversion rates and assisted conversions to evaluate the success of your TikTok ads.

5. Can I use dynamic UTM parameters for other platforms?
Yes, many advertising platforms like Facebook and Google Ads also support dynamic UTM parameters.