One of the most frequently asked questions by new businesses venturing into online advertising is whether it’s possible to run Google Ads without a website. While having a website is often seen as a fundamental part of digital marketing, the short answer is yes – you can advertise on Google Ads even without one. However, the methods available to you are more limited compared to advertisers with websites.
In this post, we’ll explore how you can effectively use Google Ads without a website, discuss why having a website is still highly recommended, and provide practical strategies for those looking to advertise in the meantime.
Why Do Businesses Choose Google Ads?
Before diving into the strategies, it’s important to understand why businesses – whether they have a website or not – are so keen on using Google Ads. Google Ads is one of the most powerful online advertising platforms, allowing businesses to reach an enormous, highly targeted audience through various channels like Google Search, YouTube, and the Google Display Network.
Some of the main benefits of using Google Ads include:
- Precise Audience Targeting: Google Ads allows businesses to target users based on location, demographics, search behaviour, and even specific keywords.
- Budget Control: You can control how much you spend, with the option to set daily budgets or cap total campaign spend.
- Measurable Results: Unlike traditional advertising, you can track impressions, clicks, conversions, and many other metrics in real-time.
Can You Run Google Ads Without a Website?
Yes, it’s possible to use Google Ads without a website, although the options are somewhat limited. You won’t be able to take full advantage of Google’s platform without a dedicated site, but there are several alternatives. These methods are ideal if you’re still in the process of developing your website or if your business model doesn’t require one just yet.
Let’s explore the main options available.
1. Google Business Profile: The Best Option for Local Businesses
For businesses that operate locally – such as restaurants, retail shops, or service providers – you can use Google Business Profile to run Local Ads without needing a website. Formerly known as Google My Business, Google Business Profile allows you to create a business listing that appears in Google Search and Google Maps. This is a simple and highly effective way for local businesses to increase their visibility online.
How Google Business Profile Works with Ads
When you run ads using your Google Business Profile, users will be directed to your business listing, which contains essential details such as:
- Business Name
- Address and Location on Google Maps
- Phone Number
- Operating Hours
- Customer Reviews
- Photos of Your Business
This means that even without a website, potential customers can easily find and contact you directly from your ad. For businesses that rely heavily on foot traffic, such as cafes or brick-and-mortar stores, this is an ideal solution.
Example Use Case
Imagine you run a local plumbing service in London. You don’t have a website, but you have a Google Business Profile with your contact details, opening hours, and reviews. By running a Local Services Ad through Google, your business will appear when potential customers search for “plumber near me” or “plumbing services in London”. From there, users can call you directly from your Google Business Profile without ever needing to visit a website.
Why It Works:
- Increases visibility for local searches
- Builds trust through customer reviews
- Can generate phone calls, store visits, or service appointments directly from your profile
- No website development or maintenance is required
2. App Promotion Ads: Perfect for Mobile-First Businesses
If you have a mobile app, you can run App Promotion Ads without the need for a website. This is an ideal strategy for businesses that primarily operate through an app, such as food delivery services, e-commerce platforms, or digital services. With App Promotion Ads, you can direct users to download your app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store without having them visit a website first.
How App Promotion Ads Work
App Promotion Ads can appear across Google’s network, including:
- Google Search: When users search for relevant keywords, such as “fitness app” or “budgeting app”, your ad can appear with a link to download the app.
- Google Play Store: If someone searches for apps similar to yours, your ad may appear within app store results.
- YouTube: You can promote your app using video ads on YouTube, targeting specific audiences based on their interests, demographics, or behaviour.
- Google Display Network: Your ads can also appear in apps, websites, or games that are part of Google’s vast Display Network, helping you reach potential users.
This option is particularly valuable for businesses with a mobile-first approach. Since mobile usage continues to rise, many companies are choosing to prioritise apps over websites to meet their audience’s needs directly on their smartphones.
Example Use Case
Consider a fitness startup that has developed an app offering virtual workout classes. Instead of building a website, the company uses Google’s App Promotion Ads to target people searching for “best fitness apps” or “workout from home” on Google Search. The ad leads users directly to the Google Play Store or Apple App Store, where they can download the app and start using it immediately.
Why It Works:
- Targets mobile users who are ready to download apps
- Ads appear across multiple platforms including Google Search, YouTube, and the Play Store
- No need for a website when driving app downloads is the primary goal
3. YouTube Ads: Engage Audiences Through Video
YouTube Ads are another fantastic option if you don’t have a website. As part of the Google Ads platform, YouTube offers a highly engaging medium to promote your products or services using video content. You can target specific audiences based on their viewing habits, demographics, or even keywords they search for on YouTube.
How YouTube Ads Work
YouTube Ads come in different formats, including:
- Skippable In-Stream Ads: These appear before or during YouTube videos, allowing viewers to skip the ad after 5 seconds.
- Non-Skippable In-Stream Ads: These ads last 15 seconds and must be watched before the viewer can continue to their video.
- Bumper Ads: Short, non-skippable ads that last up to 6 seconds and appear before videos.
When running YouTube Ads, you can include a Call to Action (CTA) that directs users to a specific page. While traditionally these CTAs direct viewers to websites, they can also link to:
- Your YouTube Channel: Encourage users to subscribe or watch more videos.
- Your App: Lead users to download your app from the Play Store or App Store.
- Your Google Business Profile: For local businesses, the CTA can send users to your Google Business Profile.
Example Use Case
Let’s say you run a boutique clothing brand and want to promote your new autumn collection. Instead of sending viewers to a website, your YouTube ad encourages them to visit your Instagram page, where they can browse your products and make a purchase via direct messaging.
Why It Works:
- Engages users with dynamic, visual content
- Targets audiences based on specific interests or demographics
- Can direct traffic to social media profiles, Google Business Profile, or app stores instead of a website
4. Lead Form Extensions: Collect Leads Directly From Google Ads
If generating leads is your primary goal, you can use Lead Form Extensions within Google Ads to capture potential customers’ details without needing a landing page. This feature allows users to submit their contact information – such as names, phone numbers, or email addresses – directly from the ad itself.
How Lead Form Extensions Work
Lead Form Extensions can be added to your Search, Video, or Display Ads. When a user clicks on the ad, a form appears directly within the ad unit, allowing them to fill in their details without being redirected to a separate webpage. Once they submit the form, you’ll receive their information to follow up.
This approach is particularly useful for service-based businesses like consultants, real estate agents, or financial advisors who need to gather leads to offer quotes or consultations.
Example Use Case
A mortgage broker is looking to generate leads for their services but doesn’t have a website yet. By using Lead Form Extensions in their Google Ads, the broker can collect contact details from interested users searching for “mortgage advice” or “best mortgage rates” directly from the ad. After receiving the lead’s details, the broker can follow up via email or phone to offer personalised advice.
Why It Works:
- Captures leads directly from the ad without needing a website
- Ideal for service businesses that rely on direct customer engagement
- Simple and effective way to generate enquiries
5. Third-Party Platforms: Social Media and E-Commerce
If you don’t have a website but operate on third-party platforms like social media or e-commerce marketplaces, you can still run Google Ads to promote your products or services. You can direct traffic to your social profiles, online marketplaces, or even specific product listings.
Example Platforms to Use with Google Ads:
- Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter: Drive traffic to your social media pages where users can engage with your content or make direct purchases.
- Amazon, Etsy, or eBay: Promote individual products or store listings on these e-commerce platforms.
- WhatsApp or Messenger: Use your ads to direct users to messaging platforms where they can inquire about your services or products.
Example Use Case
A small jewellery brand sells products exclusively on Etsy. By running Google Shopping Ads, the brand can promote individual items to users searching for “handmade jewellery” or “unique silver rings” on Google. The ad takes users directly to the brand’s Etsy page where they can make a purchase without needing a dedicated website.
Why It Works:
- Utilises existing platforms with high user trust
- Drives sales or leads while your website is being developed
- Can still build brand awareness and credibility
Why You Should Still Consider Having a Website
While it’s entirely possible to use Google Ads without a website, having one can significantly improve your marketing efforts. A website acts as the central hub for your online presence, giving customers a place to learn more about your business, browse products or services, and engage with your brand.
Here are some reasons why investing in a website is crucial in the long run:
- Credibility: A professional website enhances your credibility and gives potential customers more confidence in your brand.
- Customisation: You have full control over the user experience, including design, content, and functionality.
- SEO Benefits: A well-optimised website can generate organic traffic through search engines, reducing your reliance on paid advertising.
- Easier Conversions: A website allows for more flexibility in creating conversion funnels, from landing pages to checkout processes.
At Corsto Web Design, we specialise in creating tailored websites that suit the unique needs of your business. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to improve your online presence, we can help you create a website that enhances your brand and drives long-term success.