If you are a small business owner looking for more sales through Google Ads, you might be asking yourself a big question: Is Google Ads actually worth it?
You have come to the right place.
We will explain exactly when to use Google Ads and, more importantly, when NOT to use Google Ads for your small business.
If you have not advertised on this platform before, you might want to check out our previous guide on “What is Google Ads?” to get the basics down.
The truth is, Google Ads does not work for every kind of business. However, at OneStopMaker, we generally use a specific checklist to guide our clients. This helps us determine if Google Ads is the suitable marketing solution for them.
Here is the checklist to see if Google Ads is worth it for you.
Checklist: Is Google Ads Right for Your Business?
1. Is There Search Volume?
In Google Ads, we are specifically targeting people who are already searching for keywords related to your business.
For example, if someone searches for “plumber near Chino,” we know they need help right now. We can use tools like Google Keyword Planner to determine if there is enough search volume or demand for this specific keyword.
When it does not work: If you are selling a brand new technology or invention with the keyword “ABCD,” and no one is searching for that keyword on Google yet, you cannot effectively use Google Ads to advertise it.
If people aren’t searching for it, Google Ads won’t find them.
2. Is Your Customer Value High?
This is where the math comes in. During our Google keyword research, we check the estimated “Cost Per Click” (CPC). We need to calculate if you can actually earn a profit from the marketing spend.
The “Sticker” Example: Let’s say it costs you $20 in ad spend to acquire one customer.
- If you are selling a $5 sticker, you are losing money on every sale. In this case, no, it is not worth it.
- If you are selling a $500 service, that $20 cost is a great investment.
The Cost Per Click depends heavily on the competition in your location. We use professional tools to provide you with an accurate estimate before you spend a dime.
How We Help You Decide
At OneStopMaker, these are the two most important steps we take to do the profitability calculation for our small business clients.
We don’t just guess. We look at the data.
Running a business is already tough. You shouldn’t have to stress about wasting money on ads that don’t work.
If you are still unsure if Google Ads is worth it for your small business, please contact us for a free 1-to-1 consultation. We can look at your specific numbers and give you an honest answer.
FAQ
Google Ads works best when your customers are actively searching for what you sell. However, factors like your profit margins and local competition play a huge role in your success. Instead of guessing, let’s talk. We provide a free 1-to-1 consultation to see if Google Ads makes sense for your specific business. Reach out to us, and we’ll get back to you shortly.
It depends on your goal. Google Ads captures “intent” (people looking for you). Facebook Ads generates “awareness” (showing your product to people who might be interested). For service businesses like plumbers or contractors, Google Ads is often better because the customer needs help immediately.
One of the best things about Google Ads is the tracking. We can set up tracking to see exactly how many people clicked your ad and then called you or filled out a form. You will know exactly what your return on investment is.
No, and that is the best part. Google Ads operates on a “Pay-Per-Click” (PPC) model. This means you only pay when someone is actually interested enough to click on your ad and visit your website. If they see your ad and scroll past, it costs you nothing.