Why Your Google Ads Aren’t Working—And How to Fix Them
If you’ve run Google Ads before and felt like you were just burning money, you’re not alone. Many service-based business owners try Google Ads, get a few random clicks, and give up thinking “it just doesn’t work.”
But here’s the truth: Google Ads do work—if they’re set up right.
Let’s break down the most common reasons why your ads aren’t delivering results—and how to fix each one.
🚫 1. You’re Targeting the Wrong Keywords
Generic keywords like “plumber” or “electrician” might bring in traffic, but not necessarily customers. You need to target high-intent, local search terms.
Fix it: Use long-tail keywords with location intent like “emergency plumber in Sheffield” or “best roofer near me.” And don’t forget to add negative keywords to block irrelevant searches like “DIY” or “free.”
⚠️ 2. Your Ads Don’t Match the Search Intent
If someone searches for “boiler repair quote,” they expect a page that helps them get a quote—not a generic homepage or company profile.
Fix it: Match your ad copy and landing page directly to the user’s intent. Make it about solving their exact problem—fast.
💸 3. You’re Sending Traffic to the Wrong Page
Sending traffic to your homepage instead of a dedicated landing page is a conversion killer.
Fix it: Create a service-specific, location-specific landing page with a clear headline, contact form, phone number, and proof like reviews or photos.
📉 4. You’re Not Tracking What’s Working
No tracking = no idea what’s bringing in leads. You can’t improve what you can’t measure.
Fix it: Set up conversion tracking using Google Tag Manager. Track calls, form submissions, and even time on page. Then cut what’s not working and double down on what is.
🧠 5. You Don’t Have a Clear Offer
If your ad just says “Contact Us,” you’re missing a huge opportunity. Give people a reason to act now.
Fix it: Use a strong, benefit-driven offer like “Free Same-Day Estimates” or “Book Your Boiler Service Today – Slots Filling Fast.”
🔧 Bonus Fixes to Maximize Performance
- Use ad extensions (callouts, sitelinks, call extensions)
- Test multiple versions of ad copy
- Run ads only during business hours
- Make sure your site loads fast on mobile
Real Results: What Happens When It’s Done Right
One of our clients, East Rand Solar, came to us frustrated with their ad spend. After redesigning their website and overhauling their Google Ads strategy, they saw a 180% increase in traffic and a clear boost in qualified leads.
Ready to Make Your Google Ads Pay Off?
At Qum Studios, we help service-based businesses stop wasting money and start generating leads. From ad strategy and keyword targeting to landing pages and tracking—we handle it all.
Book your Google Ads audit today and get a plan that actually works.
Qum Studios – Marketing That Gets the Job Done.
