How to implement heatmap tools like Hotjar with Google Tag Manager

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Implementing heatmap tools like Hotjar using Google Tag Manager (GTM) is a straightforward process that allows you to gather valuable insights about user interactions on your website. Heatmaps provide visual representations of where users click, scroll, and move on your pages, helping you understand user behavior and improve your website’s design and content. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to set up Hotjar using Google Tag Manager.

Step 1: Sign Up for Hotjar

  1. Create a Hotjar Account: Go to the Hotjar website and sign up for an account if you don’t have one.
  2. Set Up Your Site: After signing in, follow the prompts to add your website to your Hotjar account.

Step 2: Obtain Your Hotjar Tracking Code

  1. Access the Tracking Code: In your Hotjar dashboard, navigate to your site’s settings. Look for the section labeled “Tracking Code.”
  2. Copy the Tracking Code: You will see a JavaScript snippet. Copy this code, as you’ll need to add it to GTM.

Step 3: Log Into Google Tag Manager

  1. Open GTM: Go to Google Tag Manager and log in to your account.
  2. Select Your Container: Choose the appropriate container associated with the website where you want to implement Hotjar.

Step 4: Create a New Tag for Hotjar

  1. Navigate to Tags: In the left sidebar, click on “Tags.”
  2. Create a New Tag: Click the “New” button.
  3. Name Your Tag: Give your tag a name, such as “Hotjar Tracking Code.”

Step 5: Configure the Hotjar Tag

  1. Choose Tag Type: Click on “Tag Configuration” and select “Custom HTML.”
  2. Paste Hotjar Code: In the HTML text area, paste the Hotjar tracking code you copied earlier.
  3. Enable Tag Firing Options:
    • Check the box that says “Support document.write” (if available), as this may help with loading issues.
    • Set up the firing options to ensure the tag loads properly.

Step 6: Set Up Triggering

  1. Click on Triggering: Select “Triggering” to specify when the Hotjar tag should fire.
  2. Choose Trigger Type:
    • Click on the “+” icon to create a new trigger.
    • Name the trigger (e.g., “All Pages Trigger”).
    • Select “Page View” as the trigger type.
    • Under “This trigger fires on,” select “All Page Views” to track Hotjar across your entire website.
  3. Save the Trigger.

Step 7: Save Your Hotjar Tag

  1. Review Your Tag Settings: Make sure everything is correctly set up, including the Hotjar code and trigger.
  2. Save the Tag.

Step 8: Test Your Implementation

  1. Preview Mode: Click the “Preview” button in the top right corner of GTM to enter Preview Mode.
  2. Open Your Website: In the new tab that opens, navigate to your website.
  3. Check for Hotjar: Open the Hotjar dashboard to see if data is being collected. You can check the “Heatmaps” section to verify that events are firing as expected.

Step 9: Publish Your Changes

  1. Exit Preview Mode: Once you’ve confirmed that everything is working correctly, exit Preview Mode.
  2. Publish Your Changes: Click on “Submit” in GTM to publish your changes.

Step 10: Verify Data in Hotjar

  1. Log Into Hotjar: Return to your Hotjar dashboard.
  2. Check Heatmap Data: Allow some time for data to populate. You should see user interactions appearing in the heatmap section.

Additional Tips

  • Configure Hotjar Features: Besides heatmaps, explore other features Hotjar offers, such as session recordings, feedback polls, and surveys, to gain deeper insights into user behavior.
  • Monitor GDPR Compliance: If you have users from the EU, ensure that your implementation complies with GDPR regulations. Hotjar provides guidance on compliance and consent management.
  • Integrate with Other Tools: Consider integrating Hotjar with other tools, such as Google Analytics, for more comprehensive analysis.

Conclusion

Using Google Tag Manager to implement Hotjar simplifies the process of adding heatmap tracking to your website. By following the steps outlined above, you can efficiently gather valuable insights into user interactions, helping you make data-driven decisions to improve your website’s design and user experience. Regularly analyze the heatmap data to identify areas for improvement and optimize your content accordingly.

Categories: Digital Marketing