Are you spending money on Google Ads but not seeing results? Or you're just starting and want to ensure you don't throw your budget down the drain. You're not alone. Many business owners struggle to make Google Ads work, especially initially. The good news is, with the right strategy, you can maximise your return on investment (ROI) even on a small budget. This guide will walk you through the basics of building a smart Google Ads strategy that works. Whether you run a local café, a small online store, or a service-based business, these tips will help you avoid common mistakes and start seeing results.

What Is a Google Ads Strategy?

Let's keep it simple. A Google Ads strategy is a plan for using Google Ads to bring in more leads, sales, or traffic. It helps you stay on Track, spend wisely, and reach the right people at the right time. Instead of just "boosting" posts or running random ads, a strategy gives you focus. You know your goals, who you're targeting, and how you'll measure success.

Why Most Beginners Waste Budget

Here's the hard truth: many beginners waste money on Google Ads. Why? Because they skip the planning part. They use broad keywords, don't set limits, and forget to track what works. The result? Money gone, with little to show for it.

But it doesn't have to be that way. With just a bit of planning, you can avoid these common traps.

Step-by-Step: Build a Google Ads Strategy That Works

1. Know Your Goal First 

What do you want from your ads? More sales? More calls? Website visits? Be clear. Google Ads gives you campaign types based on goals. Choose the one that fits you best.

  • Sales: Drive purchases on your website
  • Leads: Get people to contact you
  • Website traffic: Bring more visitors to your site
  • Brand awareness: Let more people know your business

Tip: Don't try to do Everything at once. Pick one goal and focus on that first.

2. Choose the Right Keywords 

Keywords are the words people type into Google when searching for something. You'll attract the right person if your ad shows up for the right keyword.

Use tools like:

  • Google Keyword Planner
  • Ubersuggest
  • AnswerThePublic

Look for low competition, high-intent keywords like:

  • "plumber near me"
  • "Buy dog food online"
  • "Emergency dentist Perth"

Tip: Avoid broad terms like "shoes" or "marketing" unless you have a huge budget.

3. Use a Tight Location Target 

If you're a local business, you do not need to show ads to people nationwide. Set your ads to show only in your area, like Perth, WA or your suburb. It allows you to:

  • Cut costs
  • Reach real potential customers
  • Avoid wasting budget on people too far away

4. Write Ads That Speak to Real People 

Your ad should sound like a helpful friend, not a robot.

Here's a simple ad format that works:

  • Headline 1: What you offer e.g. "Affordable Lawn Care in Perth"
  • Headline 2: A benefit e.g. "Fast Quotes, Friendly Service"
  • Description: What sets you apart e.g. "Locally owned. Reliable and affordable. Book online today."

Tip: Include the keyword in your headline.

5. Set a Daily Budget and Stick to It 

You don't need a massive budget to start. Even $10 a day can go a long way if used well. Start small, test, and scale up once you know what works.

Always set:

  • A daily budget
  • A maximum cost per click (CPC) It helps you manage your budget effectively.

6. Track Everything 

You can't improve what you don't track. Make sure you:

  • Connect your ads to Google Analytics
  • Set up conversion tracking (like purchases, calls, or form fills)
  • Check your campaign reports weekly

Look at:

  • Which keywords bring in clicks
  • Which ads get conversions
  • What times or days perform best

Then adjust your strategy based on what works.

Real Example: Sarah's Local Beauty Salon

Sarah owns a small beauty salon in Fremantle, WA. She wanted more bookings for her eyebrow services but didn't want to overspend.

Here's what she did:

  • Targeted keywords like "eyebrow threading Fremantle"
  • Set ads to show only within 10 km of her salon
  • Used a daily budget of $15
  • Wrote a friendly ad that mentioned "Walk-ins welcome"
  • Set up call tracking to count bookings

In just one month, Sarah got 38 new bookings from her Google Ads without spending more than $450.

Quick Checklist: Google Ads Strategy for Beginners

  • Set a clear goal
  • Do innovative keyword research
  • Target the correct location
  • Write people-friendly ad copy
  • Set and stick to a daily budget
  • Track and adjust based on results

Final Thoughts

Google Ads doesn't have to be scary or expensive. When done right, it's one of the fastest ways to reach new customers and grow your business. The trick is to plan first, keep it simple, and stay focused on what matters, your goals and your audience.

Ready to build your first campaign? Start small, test smart, and grow with confidence. Do you have questions or want more tips like this? Stay tuned to LivePositively for friendly guides, helpful tools, and digital tips that work for real businesses.