Why Your Ads Aren't Converting (And How to Fix Them Today)
Dana Ohana
Helping Brands Tell Their Story & Build Communities | Content Strategist | Social Media & Marketing Trainer | Founder of Big.Consulting
Let’s face it - creating ads that actually convert feels like chasing a moving target. You pour time, effort, and budget into campaigns, but the results? Crickets. The struggle is real. But what if the problem isn’t your product or service - it’s the way your ads are speaking (or not speaking) to your audience?
If you’re tired of watching your ads flop, keep reading. I’m breaking down the six ad creation tips that actually work, complete with real-world examples for businesses like yours.
1. You’re Not Speaking Their Language
Your audience is scrolling fast. If your ad doesn’t speak directly to their desires, fears, or needs in the first two seconds, you’ve lost them.
The Fix: Deep-dive into your audience’s pain points. What keeps them up at night? Speak to that.
Example:
2. Your Call-to-Action is Weak (or Missing)
An ad without a strong CTA is like a date without chemistry - no spark, no results.
The Fix: Use bold, urgent CTAs that tell your audience exactly what to do next.
Example:
3. Your Visuals Don’t Stop the Scroll
Average visuals = average results. Your audience craves eye-catching, high-quality visuals that make them stop and pay attention.
The Fix: Invest in bold visuals that align with your brand - think vibrant colors, punchy graphics, and clean design.
Example:
4. You’re Not Testing What Works
Guesswork isn’t a strategy. If you’re not testing your ads, you’re leaving conversions on the table.
The Fix: Run A/B tests. Test headlines, visuals, CTAs - everything. Let the data decide.
Example:
Real Estate Agent: Test “Find Your Dream Home Today” vs. “Your Next Home is Waiting - Take a Tour.”
5. You’re Ignoring Platform Nuances
Not all platforms are created equal. What works on Instagram might flop on LinkedIn.
The Fix: Tailor your content. Short, punchy videos for TikTok. Long-form insights for LinkedIn. Bold, curated visuals for Instagram.
Example:
Consulting Firm: Share detailed case studies on LinkedIn but quick tips and testimonials on Instagram Stories.
6. You’re Selling, Not Storytelling
People don’t buy products; they buy stories and solutions. Your audience needs to see themselves in your ad.
The Fix: Focus on transformation. Show the before and after. Highlight real-life success stories.
Example:
Skincare Brand: Instead of “Buy Our Serum,” try “See How Sarah Cleared Her Skin in 4 Weeks - Here’s Her Story.”
?? Bringing It All Together
If your ads aren’t converting, it’s not because you’re not trying - it’s because you’re not connecting. The good news? You can fix that. Understand your audience. Craft irresistible CTAs. Use visuals that pop. Test, tailor, and, above all - tell stories.
Stop creating ads. Start creating connections. That’s where conversions happen.