Where is the best place to advertise your business?

There is no one size fits all answer to the best place to advertise your business, however the best place to start is in developing a strong understanding of your target customers and to consider carefully their behaviours and buying habits. Buying behaviours vary considerably depending on whether you are targeting consumers or other businesses and whether your transactions are one off in nature or ongoing.

Starting with Your Customers

Before you consider where to advertise, understand your target market:

• Are you targeting consumers (B2C) or businesses (B2B)?
• Are purchases usually one-off or repeat transactions?
• How do your customers prefer to research, compare, and buy?

Modern customer habits have shifted massively in the last decade. While traditional channels like Yellow Pages and print newspapers used to drive leads, today’s buyers almost always start online for fast, easy-to-access information.

What About Traditional Media?

Channels like radio and TV still have their place—especially if you want to reach large, broad audiences. However, they are often less targeted and can be more expensive than digital options for small businesses.

Why Online Is (Usually) Best

The majority of New Zealanders turn to the internet first. Here’s how to think about today’s most effective online channels:

Google Search & Google Ads

Google is the “go-to” when Kiwis are ready to buy. If you’re not visible in Google for your main services, you’re losing business to your competitors.

Action: Every NZ business should consider search advertising and ensure their Google Business Profile is up to date.

Facebook & Social Media

Especially influential for the under-35 crowd, Facebook can amplify awareness and engagement for your brand—but it’s not always great for direct sales.

Action: Use social channels for community building and brand presence.

LinkedIn

LinkedIn Ads is essential for B2B marketing, and also useful for niche services or professional trades.

Action: Build your authority and connect with decision-makers in your industry.

Display & Contextual Banner Ads

Display ads work best when your ads appear alongside content directly related to your products/services.

Action: Try targeted campaigns on websites your ideal customers visit.

Email Marketing

If your business relies on repeat customers, email marketing is a powerful way to stay in touch and promote new offers.

Action: Build your list and use other advertising to fuel sign-ups.

Local Online Directories

These may look useful, but in practice, local directories drive only a small fraction of website visits for most businesses.

Don’t Forget to Measure

Whatever channels you choose, track your results with Google Analytics or similar tools. This way, you’ll quickly see what’s working—and what’s not—so you can invest your budget wisely.

DIY or Work with an Expert?

Online advertising offers immense opportunity, but it’s easy to waste money without the right strategy or technical know-how. The most effective campaigns are built on strong audience insights and careful channel selection.

Need help creating a winning advertising mix?

Adhesion works with New Zealand tradies and small businesses to reach more local customers and deliver real ROI from your advertising budget. Contact us today for expert advice and a tailored online advertising strategy.