If your website and social media presence are in great shape, you might be wondering: What’s next? The answer is digital advertising.
Running digital ads is one of the most powerful ways to expand your reach, generate leads, and turn online browsers into loyal customers. But to get results, you need more than just a “boosted post” or “smart” Google ad. You need a strategy that matches your goals—and your audience.
In this blog, we’ll break down how to get started with digital advertising, what platforms to use, and how to build a funnel that brings people closer to buying.
Why Digital Ads Work (When Done Right)
Back in the 1930s, movie studios realized it took at least seven promos to convince someone to buy a ticket—trailers, posters, radio spots, you name it. In marketing, this became known as the Rule of 7—an audience typically needs to see the brand or offer at least seven times before they take action.
And while you may not be selling out a theater, the Rule of 7 still holds true. Whether it’s an ad, email, blog post, or social scroll, your future customers need to see your message multiple times before they’re ready to buy. Think of your marketing like a trail through the desert: some people are just exploring, while others are already close to taking the next step. That’s where digital advertising shines, helping guide each customer further down that trail—if you use the right approach.
Choose the Right Ads for Each Stage of the Funnel
Not all ads are created equal. The type of ad you run should match where someone is in their customer journey.
1. Search Ads (Intent-Based Advertising)
Use Google Ads to show up when someone is actively searching for your product or service. Think:
“best chiropractor near me” or “local landscaping service.”
✅ Best for: High-intent buyers
✅ Platforms: Google Search, Microsoft Ads
✅ Goal: Leads, calls, bookings
2. Social Media Ads (Interest-Based Advertising)
Use Facebook and Instagram Ads to grab attention while users scroll through their feeds. These ads are great for showcasing products, promotions, or introducing your brand.
✅ Best for: Awareness and lead generation
✅ Platforms: Meta Ads (Facebook/Instagram)
✅ Goal: Traffic, brand engagement, form submissions
3. Display and Retargeting Ads
Ever visit a website and then see that brand everywhere? That’s retargeting—reminding potential customers who visited your site to come back and convert.
✅ Best for: Recapturing lost leads
✅ Platforms: Google Display Network, Facebook Retargeting
✅ Goal: Conversions, repeat visits
4. Video Ads (Brand Storytelling)
Short-form video is dominating online attention. Whether it’s a 15-second intro on Instagram Reels or a YouTube ad, video helps bring your brand to life.
✅ Best for: Building trust and recognition
✅ Platforms: YouTube, Instagram Reels, TikTok
✅ Goal: Brand awareness, engagement
💡 Pro Tip: You don’t have to use every platform at once. Start small, test what works, and scale from there.
What You Need Before Launching a Digital Ad Campaign
Jumping into ads without a strategy can feel like pouring water into desert sand—costly and ineffective. Here’s how to set yourself up for success:
🎯 1. Set Clear Goals
What do you want your ads to accomplish?
- Phone calls?
- Online bookings?
- Store visits?
- Email signups?
Your campaign goals determine everything—from your ad creative to your landing page. And we use that goal to optimize campaigns to achieve the right results. For a little more on how that works, check out the video below:
💬 2. Craft a Consistent Message
Your ad should match your landing page. If your ad offers “10% off lawn care,” the landing page should say the same. Consistency builds trust and improves conversions. Not sure if your landing page is built to perform? Read this.
💸 3. Choose a Smart Budget
Even a small monthly budget (like $300–$500) can generate results with the right targeting and creative. Not sure how much to spend? Use our free ROAS calculator to help you plan your ad budget based on realistic return expectations.
📍 4. Target the Right Audience
Successful campaigns are built on knowing your audience. Use location, interests, and behavior to hone in on the people most likely to buy from you.
Final Thoughts: Digital Ads Can Drive Real Growth
Digital advertising doesn’t have to feel like a gamble. When you set clear goals, use the right ad types, and keep your messaging consistent, you can turn your ad spend into measurable growth.
Ready to get started with digital advertising—but want an expert to guide the way?
We’re here to help. Book your free consultation.
