types of ads
introduction to types of ads
Advertising is a lot like taking care of a small engine. There are different types of ads, just like there are different components in your lawn mower, generator, or snowblower. Each one has a purpose, and if you understand how they work together, you can keep your marketing machine running smoothly—without stalling out halfway through the season.
Whether you’re running a side hustle, managing a small business, or simply curious about how advertising can help your personal projects or property ventures grow, this guide is built for you. Let’s break down the types of ads and how to use them effectively—using the language of small engines to make it all click.
How to Maintain Your Small Engine (a.k.a. Your Ad Strategy)
Before diving into the nuts and bolts of specific ad types, let’s talk about how to keep your strategy humming along. Just like a small engine needs regular maintenance—changing oil, cleaning filters, and tightening bolts—your advertising approach needs some TLC too. types of ads
Here’s how to keep things running smoothly:
Know Your Fuel: Understand Your Goals
Different ads serve different purposes, so first figure out what you need:
Awareness (letting people know you exist)
Leads (getting folks to contact you)
Sales (converting traffic into cash)
Retention (keeping existing customers happy)
Just like you wouldn’t use diesel in a gas engine, don’t run a sales-focused campaign on an awareness platform.types of ads
Check the Oil: Track Your Performance
Keep an eye on what’s working. Use tools like:
Google Analytics
Meta Ads Manager
Email performance dashboards
If a campaign is running dry, you’ll catch it early and make adjustments before the engine seizes.
Clean the Filters: Refresh Your Messaging
No one likes stale content. Regularly update:
Your images and headlines
Targeting settings
Call-to-actions
Even great ad types lose power over time if they’re not tuned up.
Common Small Motor Issues (and the Ad Types That Fix Them)
Let’s say your brand’s been sputtering. You’re not getting traction, or your efforts feel like a waste of money. That could mean you’re using the wrong type of ad—or using the right one the wrong way. types of ads
Let’s diagnose common problems and recommend the right ad types to fix them.types of ads
Issue #1: “Nobody knows I exist.”
Try these ads:
Display Ads: These visual banners appear across websites and apps, building awareness. types of ads
Social Media Ads: Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok are great for reaching new people quickly.
Out-of-Home (OOH) Ads: Billboards, bus stops, and even yard signs can work well locally.types of ads
Pro Tip: Pair these with clear, memorable visuals—like a brand logo, slogan, or a bright product shot.
“I have traffic, but no one’s buying.”
Solution: Time to shift gears.
Search Ads (PPC): Google Ads target people actively looking for what you offer.
Shopping Ads: Perfect for eCommerce; they show your product image, price, and store link.
Landing Page Optimization: Not an ad, but if people click and don’t convert, the issue might be your site.
Fix: Make sure your message matches your audience’s intent. A “Buy Now” ad only works on someone ready to spend.
“People forget about me after one visit.”
You’ve got the start of a relationship—but no follow-up? Try these:
Retargeting Ads: Serve ads to folks who visited your site but didn’t convert.
Email Ads: Keep leads engaged with newsletters, exclusive offers, or tips.
Video Ads: Use YouTube or social media to keep your brand top-of-mind with compelling content.
Pro Tip: Retargeting has one of the highest ROIs among digital ads. I want to grow fast, but I’m on a budget.”
If you’re a homeowner launching a small side business or hobby brand, money might be tight. Here’s where budget-friendly ads shine:
Local Service Ads (Google): Pay only when someone calls or messages you.
Facebook Boosted Posts: Inexpensive and good for community reach.
Organic content + paid boost: Create helpful content, then pay to promote your best posts.
Types of Ads: Your Marketing Toolbox
Think of each type of ad like a different tool on your workbench. Here’s a breakdown of the most common options and what each is good for: types of ads
Search Ads (Google Ads, Bing Ads)
Appear when users search for keywords.
Great for high intent and conversions.
Example: “Lawn mower repair near me.”
Display Ads
Banner or graphic ads that show on websites.
Great for awareness, branding, and remarketing.
Tip: Use eye-catching images and simple headlines.
Social Media Ads
Found on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, and more.
Excellent for targeting by interests, behaviors, or location.
Ideal for storytelling and community building.
Video Ads
Shown on YouTube, social feeds, or embedded in articles.
Fantastic for demonstrating products or telling your brand story.
Keep it under 30 seconds for best results.
Email Marketing & Ads
Build a list or rent access to another company’s list.
Useful for nurturing leads and boosting repeat business.
Bonus: One of the best ROI channels.
Native Ads
These blend into the content of the site—like sponsored blog posts.
High trust, especially in niche communities or publications.
Influencer or Creator Ads
Partner with individuals who speak directly to your niche.
Feels authentic, especially for hobbyists and DIYers.
Direct Mail & Flyers
A tried-and-true offline method.
Great for neighborhood promotions, events, and services.
Local Listings & Marketplace Ads
Ads on Yelp, Craigslist, or Nextdoor.
Perfect for reaching homeowners nearby looking for help or services.
When to Call a Pro: Getting Help with Ads
Just like with small engines, sometimes DIY is great—and sometimes it’s time to call in the pros.
Signs You Might Need a Marketing Mechanic:
You’re spending money but seeing no results.
You don’t have time to manage ad campaigns yourself.
You want to scale your business faster.
You’re confused by analytics, targeting, or platforms.
What a Pro Can Do:
Set up and manage campaigns for maximum ROI.
Test different ad types and creatives.
Optimize for your goals: traffic, leads, or sales.
Provide reports and recommendations.
Tip: Look for local agencies or freelancers with experience in your industry or niche. Many offer free consultations to get started. types of ads
Frequently Asked Questions About Types of Ads
What’s the best type of ad for a home-based business?
A: Start with social media ads and Google search ads. They’re flexible, budget-friendly, and can be highly targeted. If you’re more visual or DIY-focused (crafts, landscaping, repairs), also try video ads or Pinterest ads.
Can I run ads without a website?
A: Yes! You can direct people to:
Your Facebook page
A phone number
An online form
A product listing on Etsy, Amazon, etc.
But having a simple website gives you more control and credibility.
Are traditional ads like mailers still effective?
A: Absolutely. For local audiences, direct mail, yard signs, and flyers still work. Combine them with digital tools like QR codes or URLs to track results.
How much should I spend on advertising?
A: Start small—$100–$300/month can go a long way with the right targeting. The key is to test, learn, and reinvest in what works.
Final Thoughts: Keep the Engine Running
You wouldn’t let your snowblower sit all winter without maintenance—don’t let your marketing stall out either. Understanding the types of ads available to you is like knowing which spark plug or filter you need for the job.
Start simple. Tinker. Adjust. And when in doubt, bring in a pro to get everything firing on all cylinders. types of ads
Ready to Rev Up Your Reach?
Whether you’re advertising your lawn care service, side business, or a hobby blog—choosing the right types of ads can make all the difference. Want help getting started or need a tune-up for your current marketing engine?
