If you’re running a small business, every marketing dollar counts. Google Ads—also known as pay-per-click (PPC) advertising—can be one of the fastest ways to get your business in front of customers searching for what you offer. But is it worth the investment?
The short answer: yes, but only if it’s done right.
At J&R Marketing, we’ve managed Google Ads campaigns for dozens of local businesses across Rhode Island and beyond. Here’s what you need to know before starting a campaign—
and how to ensure it actually works for your business.
What Is Google Ads, Exactly?
Google Ads allows you to place targeted ads at the top of search engine results when people type in relevant keywords. For example, if someone searches “best roofing company in Rhode Island,” a properly managed campaign can make your business appear above the organic results.
You only pay when someone clicks your ad—hence the term “pay-per-click.” That makes it measurable, controllable, and performance-driven.
Benefits of Google Ads for Small Businesses
1. Immediate Visibility
Unlike SEO, which takes time to build, Google Ads can get your business in front of potential customers right away.
2. Highly Targeted
You can control who sees your ads by targeting keywords, locations, devices, times of day, and even types of customers.
3. Budget Flexibility
Whether you’re working with $500 or $5,000/month, campaigns can be scaled to fit your goals and adjusted in real time.
4. Measurable ROI
Track every click, conversion, and dollar spent. You’ll know exactly what’s working—and what isn’t.
Common Google Ads Mistakes That Waste Money
Unfortunately, many small businesses set up campaigns themselves or use “set-it-and-forget-it” tools—and end up wasting budget. Some common missteps include:
- Bidding on broad, expensive keywords
- Not using location targeting
- Sending traffic to a generic homepage instead of a high-converting landing page
- Ignoring negative keywords
- Not tracking conversions or phone calls
At J&R Marketing, we offer Digital Marketing Management that includes full Google Ads setup, A/B testing, and monthly performance reviews—so your campaign stays optimized from day one.
The Advantage of Working with an Agency
Google Ads is powerful—but it’s also competitive. Working with an experienced team ensures your budget is used efficiently, and your ads are written, tested, and targeted with strategy in mind.
As part of our Digital Marketing Services, we help clients:
- Select the right keywords
- Build high-converting landing pages
- Improve Quality Scores (to lower your cost-per-click)
- Create compelling ad copy
- Track real conversions (calls, forms, purchases)
Ready to Grow with Google Ads?
If you’re a business owner wondering whether Google Ads is the right next step, we’re here to help you decide. From local business SEO audits to full-scale paid campaigns, J&R Marketing helps Rhode Island businesses build growth strategies that actually work.
Contact us today to discuss your goals and get a customized proposal.