If you run a small business, you’ve probably wondered: Are online ads actually worth it, or are they just a waste of money? The short answer? They can work really well—but only if they’re done right.
Too many business owners try online ads, burn through their budget, and see little to no return. The problem isn’t the ads themselves—it’s how they’re set up, who they’re targeting, and what happens after someone clicks.
Let’s break it down.
Most small businesses that struggle with online ads run into the same problems:
Wrong targeting – If your ads aren’t reaching the right people, they won’t convert. A detailing business shouldn’t be showing ads to people 50 miles away. A plumber shouldn’t be advertising to renters. Your audience matters.
Boring or confusing ad copy – If your ad doesn’t grab attention in the first few seconds, people will scroll right past it. A generic message like “Best handyman services available!” won’t work as well as “Need a handyman in Boise? Get same-day service—call now!”
Weak landing pages – Clicking an ad should take customers to a page that loads fast, looks professional, and makes it easy to take action (call, book, or request a quote). If your landing page is slow or confusing, people will leave.
No follow-up – Not everyone who clicks your ad will buy right away. If you’re not using retargeting ads or following up with leads, you’re missing out on potential customers who just need a little more time.
Online ads can be a huge growth driver for small businesses when done correctly. Here’s when they’re worth it:
They target the right audience. A handyman in Boise should be targeting homeowners in Boise, not the entire state of Idaho. Ads should be specific to the location and needs of your customers.
The message is clear and direct. A great ad tells people exactly what they’re getting and why they should care. Example: “Emergency plumbing service in Boise. Call now—24/7 availability!”
The landing page makes it easy to take action. No distractions, no unnecessary steps—just a simple way to book a service, request a quote, or make a call.
There’s a system in place to track and adjust. Ads aren’t “set it and forget it.” They need to be tested, optimized, and adjusted based on what’s working. A good campaign gets better over time.
If you’re just starting out and don’t have a marketing budget, focus on free strategies first (SEO, Google My Business, social media). But if you’re ready to grow faster, online ads can be a game-changer—when done right.
At Motion Digital Marketing, we make sure your ads are set up for success from day one. No wasted budget, no guessing—just real results.
Thinking about running ads? Let’s chat. We’ll help you figure out if they’re the right move for your business.
