HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO ADVERTSIE ON LINKEDIN?

If you've ever thought about advertising on LinkedIn, you’ve probably also had a minor heart attack upon seeing the price tags. Unlike other social platforms where you can get away with spending a fiver and a bit of optimism, LinkedIn plays in a different league, one where a single click can cost more than your lunch. But before you run for the hills, let’s break it all down.

LinkedIn advertising costs vary based on several factors, including your target audience, bidding strategy, and ad format. The platform operates on an auction system, meaning you’re essentially competing with other advertisers for the attention of your dream customers. If you’re targeting high-level executives in competitive industries, expect to pay more. If you’re going after a niche group, you might get away with spending less.

Let’s talk numbers. On average, LinkedIn ads cost between £3 to £10 per click. That’s significantly higher than platforms like Facebook, where you can often get clicks for under a pound. But here’s the catch, LinkedIn users are in business mode. They’re not just scrolling for entertainment; they’re looking for industry insights, networking opportunities, and professional growth. So while the cost per click is high, the potential return on investment is even higher.

There are three main bidding strategies you can use:

• Cost-Per-Click (CPC) You pay each time someone clicks on your ad. Ideal for lead generation and traffic-driven campaigns.

• Cost-Per-Impression (CPM) You pay for every 1,000 impressions, whether anyone clicks or not. Best for brand awareness.

• Cost-Per-Send (CPS) Used for LinkedIn Message Ads, where you pay for every message successfully delivered to a user’s inbox.

Your budget also plays a role in determining the overall cost. LinkedIn requires a minimum daily budget of £8 per campaign, but let’s be honest, you’ll likely need more than that to see meaningful results. Many businesses start with £500 to £1,000 per month to test the waters and adjust accordingly.

So, how do you get the most bang for your buck? First, narrow down your audience. The more precise your targeting, the less you’ll waste on people who have zero interest in your offer. Second, test different ad formats. Some businesses find that text ads work better than video ads, while others swear by sponsored content. And finally, optimise your ads. A poorly written ad with a blurry stock photo isn’t going to convert, no matter how much you spend.

Is LinkedIn advertising expensive? Compared to other platforms, yes. But if you do it right, the quality of leads and conversions can more than justify the cost. Think of it as the difference between handing out flyers on the street versus pitching directly to decision-makers in a boardroom. One is cheap and random, the other is targeted and valuable.

So, before you panic over the price, focus on what LinkedIn ads can actually deliver. With the right strategy, that pricey click might just turn into your next big client. And that, my friend, is worth every penny.