Digital ads can either be your most powerful growth tool—or the fastest way to burn cash.
Most businesses waste money on digital advertising because they’re using outdated strategies, guessing at their targeting, or throwing money at ad platforms without a clear plan.
But when done right, digital ads can drive consistent, high-quality leads and grow your revenue predictably.
The question is: what actually works in 2025?
This isn’t just about running ads—it’s about running ads profitably.
If you’re a local business owner in trades, home services, legal, accounting, health & wellness, or automotive, these are the ad strategies that will bring you real customers in 2025.
Google Search Ads: The Fastest Way to Get High-Intent Customers
If someone searches for your service on Google, they’re ready to buy. Are you showing up first?
Google Ads remains one of the best investments for local businesses because it captures high-intent leads—people who are actively looking for a solution.
What’s Working in 2025?
- Hyper-targeted local keywords – Instead of broad terms like “plumber,” go for “emergency plumber Toronto 24/7.”
- Click-to-call ads – Skip extra steps. If someone needs help now, let them call directly from the ad.
- AI-driven bidding – Google’s automated bidding strategies optimize for conversions better than manual settings.
Example: A law firm bidding on “divorce lawyer free consultation” will attract higher-quality leads than one bidding on just “divorce lawyer.”
The Takeaway:
Google Ads should be a core part of your strategy if you offer services people search for when they need help right away.
Facebook & Instagram Ads: The Best Platform for Retargeting & Customer Engagement
Social media ads aren’t about chasing clicks—they’re about staying in front of the right people.
While Google Ads captures immediate intent, Facebook & Instagram Ads are powerful for:
- Re-engaging potential customers who have visited your website.
- Generating demand for services people might not actively search for but still need.
- Keeping your business top of mind so they choose you when they’re ready.
What’s Working in 2025?
- Retargeting campaigns – Show ads to people who visited your site but didn’t take action.
- Video-based storytelling – Short-form video ads outperform static images.
- Lookalike audiences – Use your existing customers to find new ones just like them.
Example: A chiropractor running a “First Visit Special” ad targeting people who engaged with their website sees a 30% increase in appointment bookings.
The Takeaway:
Facebook & Instagram Ads are best for nurturing potential customers, retargeting website visitors, and creating awareness.
Local Service Ads (LSAs): The Best Ads for Home Services & Law Firms
If you’re in-home services or legal, this should be your #1 ad platform.
Google’s Local Service Ads (LSAs) are different from regular Google Ads because:
- You only pay for leads (calls or messages)—not for clicks.
- LSAs appear above regular Google Ads—making them the first thing people see.
- Higher trust factor—Google verifies your business with a “Google Screened” badge.
Who Should Use LSAs?
- Trades (Plumbers, HVAC, Electricians, Roofers, etc.)
- Legal (Personal Injury, Family Law, Criminal Law, etc.)
- Professional Services (Accountants, Financial Advisors, etc.)
Example: A roofing company running LSAs only pays when a homeowner calls for a quote—eliminating wasted budget on clicks that don’t convert.
The Takeaway:
If you’re in home services, legal, or professional services, LSAs can deliver highly qualified leads with less risk.
YouTube & Video Ads: The Secret to Standing Out in a Crowded Market
Customers trust businesses they see and hear—video makes that happen.
More consumers watch video than ever, and video ads build trust faster than static images or text-based ads.
What’s Working in 2025?
- Short-form videos – 10-30 second YouTube & Instagram ads grab attention quickly.
- Customer testimonial ads – Social proof builds credibility instantly.
- Educational content – Answering common customer questions in a quick video establishes you as the expert.
Example: A personal trainer runs a 30-second video ad showing a free fitness consultation offer, leading to higher conversions than any other ad format.
The Takeaway:
If you want to build trust and stand out, video ads are the best way to do it in 2025.
Retargeting & Follow-Up Ads: The Cheapest Way to Convert More Leads
Most businesses lose customers because they don’t follow up.
Think about this: 98% of people who visit your website leave without taking action.
A retargeting strategy brings them back and converts more of the traffic you already paid for.
How to Do It Right:
- Run retargeting ads – Follow people around the internet with reminders to book a call.
- Use automated email & SMS follow-ups – Most leads need 2-3 touchpoints before converting.
- Create urgency – Offer limited-time deals to push action.
Example: A dentist sends an automated “Still Need an Appointment?” email and sees 25% of leads return to book.
The Takeaway:
Most customers don’t buy immediately—the follow-up makes the difference.
Final Thoughts: Which Digital Ads Should You Invest In?
The best digital ad strategy depends on your business type and goals.
- Need immediate leads? Google Search Ads & Local Service Ads should be your priority.
- Want to build awareness & stay top-of-mind? Facebook & Instagram Ads will help you stay visible.
- Want to build trust & authority? Video Ads & YouTube are your best bet.
- Want to get more out of your existing traffic? Retargeting & follow-ups will increase conversions.
Ready to Get More Customers from Digital Ads?
At Flux Marketing, we specialize in high-performing ad strategies for local businesses.
Stop guessing. Stop wasting money.
Schedule a free consultation today!
