Setting Up Call-Only Ads That Work

Setting Up Call-Only Ads That Work lets Indian shops, clinics, service providers, and local agents get direct phone calls from ready customers—no website needed, just instant action. With call-only ads in Google Ads, your phone number is the main headline, and users can tap to call you directly from mobiles. When setup is smart, targeting is clear, and team answers every query quickly, these ads can double leads at very low cost. Getting results needs good settings, simple copy, tracking, and a bit of local custom touch—all explained below.

Quick Steps to Set Up Effective Call-Only Ads

• Open Google Ads and click to create a new Search campaign with ‘Leads’ or ‘Sales’ as the goal
• Select ‘Phone Calls’ for campaign type and enter the correct business number (must match on your website/contact page for verification)
• Add your business name, headline (what you do/offer), and two descriptions that encourage users to call (e.g. ‘Call now for free estimate’)
• Double-check region/city settings—use local area targeting for more genuine leads
• Write ad copy with action words like ‘Call Fast’, ‘Get Help Now’, ‘Book Appointment Today’
• Set up call tracking and reporting in Settings—enables details of call length, source, and times for better optimization
• Choose ad schedule to match your real business hours; avoid missed calls during off-times; test different hours for peak leads
• Use high-intent “call keywords” (like ‘plumber near me’, ‘urgent AC repair’, ‘doctor number Kothrud’)
• Always add negative keywords (job, free, cheap, info, reviews) to block non-buyers and save money
• Launch campaign and check reports daily—review missed calls, answered calls, and peak lead times

Table: Optimization Checklist for Call-Only Ads

Advanced Tips for More Successful Call-Only Leads

• Raise bids in high-conversion hours or for urgent keywords (like ‘24x7 AC repair’)
• Split by location or service type—run different campaigns for each city or branch
• List reviews, certifications, or awards in ad copy or description for more trust
• Record and review calls to keep improving scripts and team training
• Integrate n8n/CRM to route calls to right person or send follow-up SMS automatically
• Test multiple messages and CTAs (A/B testing) to see what works for your market/festival season
• Regularly update ad copy for local events, seasons, and holidays to catch more leads

Local Mistakes to Avoid for Call-Only Ads

• Wrong phone number or not answering all calls—lost business instantly
• Vague copy, too many words, or very technical language—short, simple action always better
• Running ads 24/7 but no one is ready to pick calls at night
• Using generic, low-intent keywords (like ‘shop number’, ‘find out about’)
• Not reviewing call lengths—optimize for calls that bring real deals

Real-World Indian Examples

• Doctor’s clinic in Nashik started call-only ads, limited timing to 8 AM-8 PM, boosted genuine inquiries, fewer missed calls
• Urgent plumbing service in Surat used keywords like ‘24hr plumber near me’ and got daily SOS business calls
• Pandit booking in Udupi only used local keywords, call-only ads, and scheduled for festival season—more bookings, less waste
• Car workshop added trusted badge in descriptions (4.7 stars, RTO certified), saw longer, genuine leads

Tools and Resources for Better Call Tracking

• Integrate Google Ads’ built-in call tracking
• Try CallRail or n8n for more detailed call data, WhatsApp/SMS alerts
• See full call details and recordings for team training improvement
• Learn more simple steps: Official Google Ads Call-Only Setup Guide

Niranjan Yamgar’s Final Thoughts

Call-only ads bring fastest inquiries, but only if answered well, tracked, and optimized for real local needs. Train your team, check daily reports, and upgrade copy or keywords for each season or area. For easy hands-free setup, work with a local Google Ads call specialist. Wishing your business lots of calls and happy new customers every day!