The Google Advertising Professional Certification Program

We know that working at Google is cool. But for those who are not really into having a regular job, perhaps using Google products and services as a business is a good option. A lot of publishers and website owners are already aware of the benefits of Google AdSense for monetizing their sites. Some businesses are also beginning to explore the possibilities of online advertising using Google AdWords. However, not everyone is adept at using online tools to promote or enhance business. These people might need the services of others who are more knowledgeable.

Here’s where the Google Advertising Professional (GAP) certification comes in.

The GAP is basically a certification program for people who manage multipple AdWords accounts, either those they use personally, for their business, or as a paid service to other businesses.

While it’s perfectly all right and legal for any person to manage AdWords accounts of different people or companies, the GAP certification adds prestige to this undertaking. And if you’re GAP certified, you are likely to be able to improve your business with new and existing clients alike.

How to get certified

Getting into the GAP certification program would require some resources and of course, knowledge about Google’s Advertising programs and products. Being part of the program would require that you maintain at least a $1,000 total spending in your or your clients’ AdWords campaigns for up to 90 days. By then, you can already apply for certification by paying a $50 fee, and taking the GAP certification exam. Of course, it goes without saying that through this time you should be within the GAP’s rules of use.

What you get when you’re already certified

Aside from the bragging rights, you get to post an official GAP logo on your website or profile. You also get your own professional status page on Google, which would help clients validate that you are indeed a certified professional. You also get promotional discounts on AdWords campaigns, and this can bring in better value to your AdWords business when signing up new clients or working on existing campaigns.