Most businesses that struggle with paid ads aren't struggling because of the ads. They're struggling because the foundation isn't there yet. No tracking. No clear offer. A website that doesn't convert. Here's how to fix that first.
Every engagement follows the same path. Build the foundation first. Run paid ads on top of it.
One-time project work that gets your digital presence ready before a single ad dollar is spent. Website, SEO, listings, email, brand.
Paid advertising across Google, Meta, LinkedIn, and more. Flat $2,500/mo retainer. Zero % of ad spend. Every dollar goes to your ads, not my margin.
Learn about Phase 2Can people find you when they search for what you do? Is your Google Business Profile set up? Are you in the right directories? Before ads, you need to be visible organically too. If someone Googles your business and nothing comes up, ads will feel like pouring water into a leaky bucket.
Your ad sends someone to your site. What happens next? A slow site, a confusing layout, or a page that doesn't make it easy to contact you wastes every dollar of ad spend behind it. Before running campaigns, your site needs to do its job.
An ad only works if the underlying offer is compelling. The right tone, the right phrases, the right reasons to choose you. Before you spend money getting people to your offer, the offer needs to be one that actually makes them want to click.
These are the assets that must exist before any retainer delivers its full potential. Priced per project, scoped upfront, no ongoing commitment required.
5–8 page site. Mobile optimized, SEO foundation, lead capture ready.
Meta titles & descriptions, keyword mapping, GA4, Search Console, image alt text, schema markup.
Full GBP creation and optimization: categories, keyword description, photos, services, verification.
10–15 relevant directories: Yelp, Houzz, industry associations, local chambers, BBB.
Flodesk or Mailchimp: branded template, opt-in form, welcome sequence (2 emails).
Instagram bio, highlight covers, link-in-bio, Pinterest Business account, Facebook page.
A 4–6 page brand document covering tone, key phrases, messaging pillars, and what NOT to say. The reference document every future ad, email, and landing page is built from.
"These prices are starting points. Every business is different, and the right scope gets confirmed in conversation before any work begins."
— Austin
When your Google Business Profile is optimized, your website converts, and your messaging is clear, that's when paid ads compound. Campaigns that might have struggled on a weak foundation start delivering real returns.
Fill this out and I'll respond within one business day. If I don't think foundation work is what you need right now, I'll tell you that too, and what I'd do instead.