How to Run Paid Ads That Actually Support Your Launch

Let’s be honest: when it comes to paid ads during a launch, most digital business owners are either overwhelmed, overspending, or completely ghosting the ad platform.

But when done right, paid ads can be a powerful way to amplify your launch—getting more eyes on your offer, warming up your audience, and increasing conversions.

That’s exactly what we’re breaking down in this episode of Think Like an Integrator. I sat down with Rebecca Rice, our in-house Ads Director at KS Agency, to talk about what actually works when it comes to launch ads…and what doesn’t!

Why Paid Ads Can Work in a Launch (If You Use Them Right)

Rebecca made it clear: ads aren’t magic, but they are a smart strategy when paired with good messaging and strong timing! If you’re launching live and you want more people to see your content, hear your pitch, or sign up for your webinar—ads help make that happen!

But you can’t just flip the switch the day your cart opens. 

A successful ads strategy is planned weeks before launch day.

The Timeline Matters More Than You Think

Rebecca walked us through the ideal ad structure:

• 4–8 weeks before launch: Focus on visibility ads to warm your audience

• During launch: Retarget warm audiences, drive to your webinar or cart

• Post-launch: Consider nurturing or waitlist ads if you’re going evergreen

If you start ads mid-launch with no data and no warm audience, you’re just hoping for miracles. Planning ahead makes all the difference!!

How Much Should You Actually Spend?

This part always surprises people. You don’t have to spend thousands!

Rebecca recommends small daily budgets (even $10–$25/day) if you know what you’re doing and you’re clear on your goals. More important than the budget? The strategy.

Ask yourself: What’s the goal of this ad? What’s the call to action? Who is it for?

The Mistakes Most People Make

⚠️If you’re DIY-ing your ads, watch out for these common launch ad mistakes:

• Running ads only to cold traffic

• Targeting the wrong audience size (too broad = no conversions)

• Not testing creative or copy

• Starting too late in the launch cycle

• Ignoring post-launch data

At KSA, Rebecca and the ads team build layered campaigns with intentional messaging, segmented audiences, and conversion tracking from the start!

And if you’re wondering if now is the time to bring on ad support for your next launch? Click here to learn more about working with us!