Common Google Ads mistakes we saw in a Kildare consultation (in the age of AI)

Yelida Power
5 days ago
3 min read

Many people believe that running ads on Google Ads is the magic solution to getting more customers. But it doesn’t always work that way. Sometimes, launching ads without a clear foundation is just a fast way to burn your money.

Let me tell you a real story.

The case of Mary in Kildare

Mary runs a wellness expert in Kildare. She wanted to promote her events and ongoing services through Google Ads. So, we scheduled a consultation to explore her options.

Very quickly, something became clear: Mary didn’t have clarity in her business.

She wasn’t sure what message she wanted to communicate.
She didn’t know who her ideal customer was.
She had no real positioning in the market.

It was like planning a party, but not knowing what kind of party it is, or who to invite.

We told her:

“If we launch ads like this, chances are you won’t get results. You’ll just be spending money for nothing.”

The case of a service based business in South Dublin

We also worked with a larger company in South Dublin. They had already worked with three digital ads agencies. They ran ads on Google and Facebook, but nothing really worked.

What was the real problem? Their message was weak and generic. It didn’t connect with anyone.

They weren’t clear on who they were speaking to. They didn’t know how to stand out from others offering similar services. It wasn’t a traffic problem; it was a communication problem.

7 common Google Ads mistakes we see often

Running ads without knowing what you’re actually selling
Not knowing who you’re speaking to
Having a weak or confusing message
Believing that “more traffic” will fix everything
Relying only on ads to sell
Not standing out in a crowded market
Ignoring branding and personal brand

So, what should you do before launching ads?

If you’re thinking about launching Google Ads, here are a few steps to take before putting any money into ads:

1. Review your message

Ask yourself: What are you really offering? What value are you bringing to the market? Your message should be simple, clear, and true to what you actually deliver.

2. Understand how people perceive you

The marketing style from the 90s doesn't work anymore. Today, it's not just about what you say, it's about what your audience feels. Ask your current clients:

“How would you describe me to someone else?”
“Why did you choose to work with me?” This feedback is gold.

3. Audit your communication and visual identity

Look at how you’re showing up online and offline. Does your brand feel aligned with the experience you want to create? Are people seeing the real you or a confusing version of you?

All of this can be improved. And often, it doesn’t take years, it can take a few focused weeks with the right partner.

4. Know exactly who you’re speaking to

There’s someone out there who will resonate more with you than with any other provider. Why? Because of your story, your energy, your approach.

Get clear on who that person is. And speak directly to them.

Final tip 💡:

Please don’t launch ads just because you feel pressured to “do something.” Running ads without fixing these areas first is like throwing a party without knowing who you’re inviting and still hoping the room fills up.