How Ads Really Work (and What They Can’t Do)
The Real Role of Paid Ads in Business Growth
Paid advertising is often sold as a quick fix for slow sales — but that’s a dangerous myth. Whether you’re running Google Search Ads, Meta campaigns (Facebook + Instagram), or LinkedIn Ads, the role is the same: ads drive qualified traffic. They don’t magically fix a weak offer, a slow website, or unclear messaging.
What Ads Can Do (Across All Platforms)
Generate Awareness Quickly — Meta and LinkedIn are especially good for getting in front of people who don’t yet know your brand.
Capture High-Intent Searches — Google Ads shine when customers are actively searching for what you sell.
Deliver Precise Targeting — LinkedIn’s job titles and industry filters are unmatched for B2B campaigns.
Provide Performance Data — All three platforms give insights you can use to refine your targeting, creative, and offer.
What Ads Will Never Do
Compensate for unclear offers or poor landing pages
Guarantee instant ROI (especially in competitive industries)
Replace the need for consistent brand building
Pro Tip
Before running ads, pretend you’re a cold lead landing on your page. If you can’t tell in 5 seconds what you do, who it’s for, and why it’s worth it — fix that first.
