Avoid These Common Mistakes in Google Ads Campaigns
Google Ads remains one of the most powerful tools for tradies looking to generate quick, targeted leads. Whether you're a plumber, electrician, builder or landscaper, advertising on Google can bring in customers who are actively looking for your services. But while the platform offers great potential, it’s also easy to waste budget if your campaign isn’t set up and managed correctly.
At DM Design Studio, we manage Google Ads campaigns for tradies across Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and Perth. We’ve seen firsthand how common errors in strategy and setup can lead to poor results, wasted spend and missed opportunities. In this article, we’ll cover the most common mistakes we see - and how to avoid them.
Targeting the wrong keywords
One of the most frequent issues in Google Ads campaigns is choosing the wrong keywords. Many businesses target broad, general terms like “plumber” or “electrical services,” hoping to reach more people. But without qualifiers like location, intent or specific services, these keywords attract unqualified clicks.
We help clients focus on high-intent, location-specific keywords that match what real customers are searching for. Examples include “emergency electrician Sydney” or “hot water system installation Inner West.”
Not using negative keywords
Negative keywords are essential for filtering out irrelevant traffic. Without them, your ad could appear for searches that have nothing to do with your business, such as job seekers or DIY guides.
For example, if you're targeting “plumbing services,” your ad might show for “plumbing courses” unless you add “course,” “job” and “training” as negative keywords. At DM Design Studio, we build detailed negative keyword lists for all tradie campaigns to reduce wasted spend.
Sending ads to the homepage
Your homepage might look good, but it’s rarely the best place to send Google Ads traffic. Homepage content is often too general, with no clear next step or service-specific focus.
We create custom landing pages that match the keywords and ads. If someone searches “switchboard upgrade Sydney,” they should land on a page about that service, with a clear call to action and trust-building elements like reviews or certifications.
Ignoring mobile optimisation
Most tradie-related searches happen on mobile. If your landing page isn’t mobile-friendly, loads slowly or makes it hard to call, you're losing leads.
All Google Ads landing pages we build at DM Design Studio are designed mobile-first. We ensure fast loading, tap-to-call buttons and simplified layouts that work on every device.
Writing weak ad copy
Your ad is your first impression. If it doesn’t grab attention or clearly state what you offer, people will scroll past. Many ads we audit are vague, generic or miss the opportunity to highlight a unique selling point.
We write strong, action-oriented copy that speaks directly to what customers want. That includes your location, services, availability and trust signals like “licensed,” “no call-out fee” or “5-star rated.”
Not using ad extensions
Ad extensions allow you to expand your ad with extra information - phone numbers, site links, service details and more. They increase the size of your ad and improve click-through rates.
At DM Design Studio, we always implement structured extensions to improve performance. This includes callouts like “24/7 service,” sitelinks to key services and location extensions for local relevance.
No conversion tracking
You can’t improve what you don’t measure. Running ads without conversion tracking means you don’t know which keywords, ads or locations are actually delivering results.
We set up full tracking on all campaigns, including form submissions, phone calls and click-to-call activity. This data allows us to refine your strategy over time and maximise your return on ad spend.
Failing to review search terms
The Search Terms Report shows exactly what people typed when your ad was shown. Reviewing this regularly helps you identify wasted clicks and new keyword opportunities.
Many tradie businesses ignore this report, allowing irrelevant traffic to drain their budget. As a Google Ads expert in Sydney, we review this data frequently and adjust your campaigns to keep them sharp and focused.
Setting and forgetting
Google Ads is not a set-and-forget tool. Markets shift, competitors change their strategy, and your business goals evolve. Campaigns need ongoing review, adjustment and testing to stay effective.
We provide monthly reporting and continuous optimisation for all clients. This ensures your ads stay competitive, relevant and cost-effective in changing market conditions.
No location targeting
Failing to set proper location targeting can result in your ads showing to users outside your service area. This not only wastes budget but also creates a poor user experience.
We ensure all campaigns are geo-targeted to your service zones, whether you're operating in Western Sydney, Northern Beaches or multiple suburbs. This ensures you’re only paying for clicks that can turn into actual jobs.
Why tradies in Sydney trust DM Design Studio with Google Ads
We work with trades and service businesses who need more than just clicks. Our focus is on delivering real results - phone calls, booked jobs and increased revenue. Whether you’re running your first campaign or looking to improve an existing one, our team provides full-service support.
From detailed keyword research and mobile-optimised landing pages to ad copywriting and performance reporting, we manage every part of your Google Ads campaign. And because we work with businesses in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth, we understand how to adapt strategies to suit different local markets.
Ready to improve your Google Ads results?
If your current campaign isn’t working or you’re unsure where to start, we’re here to help. Avoiding common mistakes is the first step toward better performance, and with the right setup, Google Ads can become your best source of new leads.
Visit www.dmdesignstudio.au to learn more about how we help tradies build high-performing campaigns with Google Ads. Our team is ready to optimise your account and generate consistent, quality leads.
