Ads before GSC + working form = wasted budget. Start local search, not Display.
Best for
- High-intent local queries (plumber + city)
- You can answer calls within 2 hours
- Margin supports 300+ monthly ad spend
Avoid if
- Site not live or form broken
- No idea what keyword brings money
- Brand-new domain with zero reviews
● TOOLS
Related stack
Google AdsGoogle Search Console
● Build phases
Google Ads starter
01
Prerequisites check
✓ Site live ✓ Form works ✓ GSC connected ✓ One clear offer on landing. If any missing — fix first.
Done when: All four checkmarks true
02
Create account & campaign
ads.google.com → New campaign → Leads or Local → pick city radius → 3–5 exact keywords from GSC or common sense.
Done when: Campaign paused or live with daily cap ≤ 15 currency units
03
Track conversions
Link Google Ads to GA4 or use form thank-you page as conversion. Count form submits and calls — not just clicks.
Done when: You know cost per lead after 2 weeks or 50 clicks (whichever first)
● GUIDES
Related guides
Risks
- Broad match keywords
- No negative keywords
- Landing page ≠ ad promise