CPC (Cost Per Click) advertising is a pricing model where advertisers pay each time someone clicks on their ad, rather than when it’s simply viewed. This model is common in search engine ads, social media, and display networks, where advertisers set a maximum cost they’re willing to pay per click. Platforms like Google Ads or Facebook Ads then use an auction system to determine which ads will show, based on both the advertiser’s bid and the relevance of the ad to the user’s query or interests.

In CPC advertising, each click represents a potential lead or customer, making this model ideal for advertisers focused on driving traffic, generating leads, and increasing conversions. Since advertisers only pay when a user clicks on their ad, it can be more cost-effective than models like CPM (cost per mille), which charge per thousand views.

To succeed with CPC, advertisers need to carefully research keywords, create compelling ad copy, and optimize their campaigns continuously. Platforms also provide performance data, such as click-through rates (CTR) and conversion rates, enabling advertisers to adjust their bids and target audience for the best results. CPC advertising is a valuable tool for businesses looking to attract engaged, ready-to-act users to their websites or landing pages.