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The Digital Ads that Actually Make Money

Paid digital advertising can be a real money-maker for your local business. Digital ads are capable of targeting the exact clients you want while they are in the market for your services. But like most things in business, you won’t win without a plan.

Dig Ad campaigns are only as good as the strategy and execution behind them. Your time and money are too valuable to waste on ads that won’t work, so let’s talk about how to do Dig Ad right.

The Three Keys to Digital Ad Campaigns that Actually Make Money:

  • Attention-Grabbing: aim for creative ads that use eye-catching visuals, compelling copy, and interactive elements to capture and hold a viewer’s attention.
  • Relevant: tailor your ads to the target market’s needs, making sure it appears at the right time to be of interest.
  • Actionable: prompt your prospective clients to take immediate action upon seeing the ad, like clicking to visit your website or filling out a lead form.

Now let’s look at different types of highly effective digital ads tailored for local businesses and what makes them work: 

1. Google Search Ads 

Example

  • Headline: “Reliable Roofing Services in [City] – Call Now!” 
  • Description: “Get expert roofing repairs & installations in [City]. Same-day service available. Free estimates – Call today!” 
  • Extensions: Include call extensions (phone number), location extensions, and sitelinks (e.g. “View Services,” “Get a Free Quote”). 

Why It Works

  • Targets users with high intent (e.g. those searching for “roof repair near me”). 
  • Immediate call-to-action (CTA) like “Call Now.” 
  • Local relevance with the city name and same-day availability. 

2. Facebook/Instagram Ads 

Example

  • Image/Video: A happy customer at your store or a product demo. 
  • Text
    • “✨ Ready for a Home Refresh? ✨ 
    • [Business Name] in [City] offers home improvement services tailored to your needs. 
    • ✅ Affordable pricing 
    • ✅ Flexible scheduling 
    • ✅ 5-star reviews from your neighbors! 
    • Book now and get 10% OFF your first service!” 
  • CTA Button: “Book Now” or “Call Us.” 

Why It Works

  • Visual storytelling grabs attention. 
  • Offers a clear incentive (10% OFF). 
  • Easy-to-click CTA directly leads to booking or contacting. 

3. Retargeting Display Ads 

Example

  • Headline: “Still Thinking About Us?” 
  • Image: Showcase a product or service the customer viewed on your website. 
  • CTA: “Return Now & Get 15% Off – Limited Time!” 

Why It Works

  • Targets users who’ve already shown interest by visiting your website. 
  • Provides an incentive to return and complete their purchase. 

4. Local Service Ads (LSAs) 

Example

  • Headline: “Top-Rated Plumbers in [City].” 
  • Text: “Verified & Trusted Pros. Contact Us for Fast Service Today.” 
  • Call Button: Directly connects the user to your business. 

Why It Works

  • Appears above regular search results. 
  • Builds trust with Google’s “verified” badge. 
  • Perfect for urgent services like plumbing, locksmiths, or HVAC repairs. 

5. TikTok or Reels Ads 

Example

  • Video: A short, engaging clip of a landscaping crew snapping their fingers to magically reveal a yard transformation.
  • Caption
    • “✨ Transform Your Summer with [Landscaper Name]! 
    • Special Offer: 20% OFF for 24 Hours. 
    • Book Now
    • #YardTransformation #CurbAppeal” 
  • CTA Button: “Book Now” 

Why It Works

  • Leverages viral, trend-focused content. 
  • Engages younger audiences actively using TikTok and Instagram. 
  • Short and impactful, driving curiosity and bookings. 

6. Email Remarketing Ads (Custom Audiences) 

Example

  • Subject Line: “We Miss You – Here’s 20% OFF Just for You!”
  • Content:
    • Highlight your services or new offers. 
    • Include an exclusive promo code. 
    • Add a clickable CTA like “Redeem Offer.” 

Why It Works

  • Re-engages previous customers. 
  • Offers exclusivity and urgency (e.g., limited-time deals). 
  • Drives repeat business cost-effectively. 

7. Local Event-Based Ads 

  • Example
  • Headline: “Join Us for [Event Name] in [City]!” 
  • Image: Bright visuals of the event setup or products/services being offered. 
  • Text
    • “Don’t miss out on [Event Name] happening this weekend at [Location]! 
    • 🎉 Live demos 
    • 🎁 Free giveaways 
    • 📍 Find us at [Location Name]. 
    • See you there!” 
  • CTA Button: “Learn More” 

Why It Works

  • Ties your business to community events, boosting local credibility. 
  • Encourages in-person interaction and engagement. 

Key Principles for Profitable Ads 

  1. Local Relevance: Mention your city or neighborhood to connect with your audience. 
  2. Strong CTA: Use clear actions like “Call Now,” “Book Today,” or “Learn More.” 
  3. Eye-Catching Visuals: Use high-quality images, videos, or graphics that grab attention. 
  4. Value Proposition: Highlight what makes you different (e.g., “Eco-friendly,” “Free estimates,” “Top-rated”). 
  5. Incentives: Include limited-time discounts or freebies to encourage immediate action. 
  6. Mobile Optimization: Ensure ads look great and work smoothly on mobile devices. 

By combining these strategies, you can create ads that resonate with local audiences and drive real revenue for your business.

At Lead Science, we also understand that taking great care of your existing clients is more than a full time job. With a busy schedule like yours, it can be difficult to find the time to master new marketing strategies. Things like digital ads can be de-prioritized for the sake of keeping a business moving forward.

We can help.

The Lead Science solutions team has mastered the art of digital advertising and growing a local business Online.

Do you have 5-10 minutes? Let’s have a conversation.

Schedule a Call 

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