Are Facebook Ads right for my business?

Facebook Ads don’t work for every single business out there – but, chances are, they will work for your business. Here are some of the common excuses people use when claiming that Facebook Ads don’t work for them (and two of the real excuses that Facebook Ads might not work for your business), so that you can work out if Facebook Ads are right for your business.  

 

 

 

Are Facebook Ads right for my business?

It's pretty common to hear people complaining, saying “Facebook Ads don't work for my business!” The thing is: Facebook Ads will actually work for most types of businesses if done correctly. Last year, I ran a poll in the Facebook group LMBDW, asking people if Facebook Ads worked for them. Over 50% said no.

It's easier to dismiss the platform as not working for your business than it is to put in the time and effort to learn, strategise and execute properly. Don't get me wrong: I'm not blaming you for a second. There is way too much conflicting information out there and there are way too many glorified used-car salesmen attempting to teach you Facebook Ads hacks that will 10x your email list growth overnight.

All of these people rush to tell you their latest tricks and hacks when what you really need to learn is basics. So, if you're still worried the Facebook Ads won't work for you, here are some common excuses I hear from people.

#1. My business is B2B

There's a common misconception that Facebook Ads won't work for B2B businesses. And, honestly, the short answer is that there isn't any reason why they shouldn't. The businesses you're targeting typically have people who make the big decisions. What do these big decision makers do on their morning commute? What are they scrolling through while they're waiting in line for their mid-morning coffee? Just because they might be the big dogs, doesn't mean they're not also checking Facebook a few times a day.

Yes, they can be a little bit harder to target but Facebook has some pretty powerful targeting options so it's definitely possible. One of my favourite tactics here is to target people initially with LinkedIn Ads and then retarget them on Facebook with Facebook Ads.

#2. I don't have an online store

Believe it or not, there are people on the internet who will get into their car and drive to your store if you have something they want.

Just because someone can't click through your ad to purchase, doesn't mean your ad spend is a complete waste. Facebook Ads are a fantastic way to grow brand awareness, build your email list and nurture trust with the people who might one day become your paying customers.

Just make sure that you are targeting people near your store – so don't target people in Rome, Italy, when your store is in Roma, Queensland.

#3. I don't sell a physical product

Just because your product is intangible doesn't mean it's not advertisable. Sure, you mightn't have the pretty product photos that your physical product friends do, but you can still use Facebook Ads to grow your email list, nurture trust and magically transform those visitors into paying clients.

If you're selling a high ticket item then you have even more of a reason to use Facebook Ads, as your customer buying journey is going to be longer than someone with a cheaper ticket item. You can use Facebook ads to nudge your customers or clients along a little bit quicker just by building trust and reminding them that you exist.

If you don't have product photos to use in your ad images, why not use of these Facebook Ad templates?

#4. My target audience is too old

My 88-year-old Italian Nonna hasn't figured out Facebook yet (thank goodness!) but the oldies these days are getting more and more tech savvy.

If you're targeting people in an older demographic with Facebook Ads to buy your product online, you might have a few issues convincing them that it's safe to hand over their credit card details. Or, if you're selling clothing or shoes, they might want to try them on. But, the audience is there if you're trying to advertise something appropriate to them.

#5. My target audience is too young

Is your audience over 13? If yes, then they're not too young.

Sure, Facebook has some specific rules for ads targeted to people aged under 17, but there's actually no reason why you can't target your ads to them. Be mindful of the fact that those under 18 probably won't have their own credit card yet, so look into payment alternatives and maybe don't go all in on Facebook alone. Check out some other platforms too, as I hear that the young kids these days are spending less and less time on Facebook.

#8. I sell something illegal

Finally, a legit excuse the Facebook Ads won't work for your business! Look, if you're selling something illegal, Facebook Ads won't work for you.

That said, you'll find that most paid advertising channels won't work for your business. Your target audience won't be looking for you on Facebook – they just know a guy who knows a guy.

#9. But I only sell to the Amish

If you're targeting your product to someone based on personal attributes such as their religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, medical conditions, etc. then you need to be careful as the Facebook Advertising policy is a fine line

Hey – have you signed up for my FREE Facebook Ads training yet? Click here to do so.

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