Don’t Even Think About Running Google Ads Until You’ve Done This

Google Ads is one of the most powerful tools for service businesses looking to generate consistent leads, keep phones ringing, and grow their business. So getting it set up the right way is critical to your success.

Every day, potential customers are searching on Google for services like yours—and if you’re not showing up, your competitors are getting the calls instead.

That’s why we created this step-by-step guide to walk you through exactly what you need to do to start running Google Ads.

By the end of this guide, you’ll have everything set up to start generating leads like a pro.

Before we begin, it's important to know...

Why Service Businesses Need Google Ads

Running a service business means you’re juggling schedules, customer calls, and operations. But relying on word-of-mouth or outdated advertising methods won’t scale your growth.

Google Ads offers:

• Prime Visibility: Show up at the top of search results when customers are actively looking for services.
• Consistent Lead Generation: Attract high-quality leads ready to book.
• Scalable Growth: Control your ad spend and scale as your business grows.

Google Ads Setup Checklist

Here’s a quick reference to everything you need to start running Google Ads. Use this checklist as you follow the guide:

• Google Tag Manager or Analytics:
  • Track performance and conversions.
• Google Ads Account:
  • Sign up at ads.google.com.
• Google Business Profile:
  • Verify and optimize your business listing.
• Website or Landing Page:
  • Set up a page designed to convert leads.
• Payment Method:
  • Add a credit card or billing details.

Let's get started!

Step 1: Create a Google Ads Account

Your Google Ads account is the foundation of your advertising efforts. It’s where you’ll create and manage campaigns.

How to Set It Up

1. Go to Google Ads and sign up with your business email.
2. Enter your business details and set up your billing information.

When asked about your advertising goals, select “Switch to Expert Mode” for more control over your campaigns.

Step 2: Set Up or Verify Your Google Business Profile

Businesses with complete profiles are 2.7x more likely to be considered reputable. It helps your business appear on Google Maps and local search results.

How to Set It Up

1. Go to Google Business Profile and claim your business.
2. Verify your location by postcard, phone, or email.

Optimize Your Profile

• Add a professional logo and cover image.
• Include accurate business details: hours, address, and phone number.
• Post photos of your work and encourage customer reviews.

Step 3: Create a High-Converting Landing Page

A great landing page ensures visitors turn into leads. Sending people to your homepage is a missed opportunity. Landing pages convert at a 220% higher rate than general website pages when used in ad campaigns.

What to Include on Your Landing Page

• Headline: Clearly state what you offer (e.g., “Fast, Reliable Plumbing Services in [City]”).
• Call-to-Action (CTA): Use action-oriented phrases like “Get a Free Quote” or “Call Now.”
• Trust Signals: Add customer reviews, certifications, or awards.
• Mobile Optimization: Ensure the page looks great on phones.

There are so many things that go into to building a landing page. It's important to do your research and get clear on what you're trying to achieve.

Step 4: Set Up Google Analytics or Tag Manager

These tools help you track clicks, calls, and form submissions, so you know exactly how your ads are performing. The more robust your data, the easier it becomes to find the people who want what you're offering.

How to Do It

1. Go to Google Analytics and create an account.
2. Follow the steps and add the tracking code to your website.
3. Use Google Tag Manager for easier implementation of tracking pixels.

Step 5: Add a Payment Method

Google Ads requires a payment method before running campaigns.

How to Do It

1. Go to Billing → Payment Methods in your Google Ads account.
2. Add a credit card, debit card, or PayPal account.
3. Set your billing threshold and frequency.

Step 6: Make Sure Your Website Is Ad-Ready

88% of online consumers are less likely to return to a site after a bad experience. Before running ads, ensure your website or landing page builds trust and encourages conversions.

What to Check

• Fast Loading Times: Slow pages lose visitors.
• Clear Contact Info: Make it easy for leads to call or email you.
• Mobile Responsiveness: Over 60% of searches are done on mobile devices.

Step 7: Research Keywords for Your Campaign

The success of your Google Ads depends on targeting the right keywords—terms your ideal customers search for when they need your services.

How to Research

1. Use Google Keyword Planner to find high-traffic, low-competition keywords.
2. Focus on long-tail keywords like “emergency plumbing in [City]” or “affordable landscaping near me.”
3. Include negative keywords to filter out irrelevant searches (e.g., “free,” “DIY,” etc.).

Final Thoughts

Every day, potential customers are searching for services like yours on Google. But if you’re not showing up, you’re leaving money—and leads—on the table.

Need help? At It’s Digital, we do the heavy lifting so you can focus on running your business.