Creative Pest Control Advertising Ideas to Boost Your Business

Are you looking to grow your pest control business? Exploring new marketing strategies can increase your revenue and help you stand out from your competitors.

The pest control industry in the US was valued at more than $24 billion in 2023. This reflects a significant increase from $14.3 billion in 2012.

Whether your business is thriving or just getting off the ground, staying competitive in a growing market is important.

Wondering how to attract new customers? There are plenty of online and offline marketing tools at your fingertips that can help you get noticed. 

Let’s look at some creative pest control advertising ideas. These will help you build campaigns across different platforms and reach the right customers!

Digital Advertising

Digital advertising covers a variety of platforms. You may think of email campaigns or your website as your digital component, but there’s far more to digital advertising.

Most small businesses invest about 10-15% of their total revenue into marketing. This is because digital marketing sees a high return on investment (ROI) regardless of which platform you use. 

To be successful, it’s important to create a plan that includes different types of digital advertising. Using a mix of strategies will help you reach more people and boost your brand.

Before you start planning, let’s look at the main types of digital advertising.

RELATED ARTICLE: Top 10 Digital Marketing Agencies for Home Services

1. Search Engine Optimization

No matter which platform you choose, search engine optimization (SEO) should be a top priority. SEO helps your website show up when people search for pest control services online. In fact, SEO can generate 1,000% more traffic than organic social media marketing.

But how do you make SEO work for your business? Follow these strategies to improve your rankings and attract more customers.

Focus on the right keywords.

• Use keywords people search for, such as “best mosquito treatment near me,” in your website copy, titles, and image descriptions.
• Long-tail keywords (three or more words) work better—try “affordable termite treatment in [your city]” instead of “pest control.”

Optimize for local searches. 

• Keep your Google Business Profile updated with your correct name, address, and hours—62% of consumers avoid businesses with incorrect information.
• Encourage customer reviews to boost your ranking on Google and attract more leads.

Use SEO for social media. 

• Keywords and hashtags help your posts get discovered. Use tags such as #BedBugRemoval and #PestControlTips to expand your reach.
• More engagement = better visibility to potential customers.

Keep your website fast and mobile-friendly.

• Google ranks fast-loading sites higher, and slow sites drive visitors away.
• Use compressed images, clear navigation, and easy-to-read text to improve speed and user experience.
• Check your site’s speed with Google PageSpeed Insights.

Create high-quality content. 

• Regularly publish blog posts on seasonal pest control issues or common pest problems. Google rewards fresh, helpful content.
• The more valuable your content, the more likely customers will visit and book your services.

2. Email

Email marketing is a great way to keep in touch with your customers and get them to take action. It includes things such as event invites, sales, or special discounts. Add links in your emails that take people to your website. This can increase engagement and bring more traffic to your site.

You can also use email as part of your broader marketing plan. Send regular updates to your customers about special offers or helpful information they may be interested in.

Use email platforms such as Mailchimp or Constant Contact to create and send emails. These tools let you personalize your emails, organize your list, and track how well your emails are working. They exist to make your marketing easier!

Here are some ways to get the most out of your email advertising:

• Segment your list. Group your audience based on interests or past behavior to send more relevant emails.
• Write compelling subject lines. Keep them short, clear, and appealing to boost open rates.
• Personalize email messages. Use the recipient’s name or offer location-specific deals to improve engagement rates.
• Use strong calls to action (CTAs). Tell readers exactly what to do next, like “Book Now” or “Claim Your Discount.”
• Optimize for mobile. Ensure your emails look great on all devices. Most users check emails on their phones.
• Test and track performance. Test different subject lines, layouts, and CTAs to see what works best.

RELATED ARTICLE: Pest Control Email Marketing 101

3. Google

Verify your business with Google to ensure it’s registered on the search engine. This helps your pest control company show up when potential customers search for services in your area. It’s an easy way to get noticed and attract new customers.

Once your company is registered, take advantage of Google’s advertising services. Google Ads lets you run multiple campaigns at once, targeting specific keywords and locations. 

Try these strategies to maximize your Google Ads success:

• Use local targeting. Set your ads to appear in specific cities or zip codes to reach nearby customers.
• Choose the right keywords. Focus on search terms your customers actually use, such as “emergency pest control near me.”
• Write compelling ad copy. Highlight your unique value, such as “24/7 Pest Removal—Fast & Affordable!”
• Set a budget that works for you. Start small, test different strategies, and adjust based on performance.
• Track and optimize. Use Google Ads reports to see which ads perform best and tweak them for better results.

On average, advertisers earn eight times the profit they spend on Google Ads. This could be you!

4. Pay Per Click

To get the best results from pay-per-click (PPC) campaigns, start with a clear budget and goals. Do you want more website visits, phone calls, or bookings? Tools like Google Ads let you set daily limits to keep you on track.

Monitor your campaigns regularly to see which ads are performing best. Tweak ad copy, adjust bids, or refine targeting to improve results. Stay flexible to maximize your budget.

Use these tips for PPC success:

• Target the right keywords. Use local, high-intent keywords such as “emergency termite removal near me.”
• Use negative keywords. Filter out irrelevant searches (e.g., “DIY pest control”) to avoid wasted budget.
• Optimize ad copy. Highlight unique benefits, such as “Same-Day Pest Control—Call Now!”
• Leverage ad extensions. Add location, call buttons, or sitelinks to make contacting you easier.
• Test and refine. Test different headlines and descriptions to see what converts best.

5. Social Media

Social media made up 33% of all digital advertising spending in 2022, and its influence continues to grow. There are two main ways to use social media for marketing—organic and paid. A mix of both can help you reach more customers.

Organic social media includes free posts that boost brand awareness. These posts engage followers through tips, testimonials, and behind-the-scenes content.

Paid social media uses targeted ads to reach potential customers. These ads are based on factors such as location, interests, and behaviors.

These are the best platforms for pest control:

• Facebook: A top choice because of its wide audience and targeting tools.
• Instagram and TikTok: Great for short videos, like pest prevention tips.
• LinkedIn: Good for networking and reaching business customers.

Pro tip: Local Facebook groups can help you connect with nearby homeowners.

Try these strategies for social media growth:

• Share helpful content. Post pest prevention tips, before-and-after photos, and customer testimonials.
• Engage with followers. Quickly respond to comments and messages to build trust.
• Use local targeting. Focus paid ads on your service area to reach the right audience.
• Test different content. Try images, videos, and customer stories to see what resonates most.
• Track performance. Use platform insights to analyze results and refine your strategy.

Facebook Ads for Pest Control Businesses

Facebook has a huge audience, with 2.2 billion active users. This makes it a great way to reach new customers. On average, Facebook ads give 152% ROI, meaning you get more back than you spend!

You can also target people based on location, interests, and behaviors. Facebook gives you helpful data to improve your ads over time. If you want to reach local customers, you’ll find them on Facebook!

Here’s how to create effective Facebook ads:

• Start a Facebook business page. It’s free and it helps build your online presence. Once your page is set up, link it with Facebook’s Ad Manager to build, manage, and analyze your ads all in one place.
• Pick the right ad type. Choose from Facebook’s ad formats based on your goals. For pest control, image ads work well to show off your services. Video ads can demonstrate your expertise or provide real-life examples of pest control work.
• Use local targeting. Focus your ads on people within your service area. Facebook lets you target specific locations, so you can reach homeowners in your town or city who are most likely to need pest control services.
• Set a budget. Decide whether you want to set a daily or lifetime budget. Both allow you to control how much you spend. Make sure to track your spending closely to avoid overspending.
• Test your ads. Facebook allows you to run different versions of your ads. Test different images, copy, and CTAs to see what works best. Use that data to improve future ads.
• Make your CTA clear. Be specific about what you want people to do. Whether it’s “Book Now,” “Get a Free Estimate,” or “Call for a Consultation,” your CTA should be easy to spot and direct people to the next step.

6. Video Marketing

Video marketing is a great way to show off your pest control company’s expertise and connect with potential customers. 

You can make videos that explain pest prevention, show your treatments in action, or share customer testimonials. Platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, and TikTok are great places to reach your audience.

Don’t forget to engage with trending topics or seasonal pest issues in your videos! This can make your content more relevant and timely, attracting a wider audience.

Here are some tips for creative pest control video marketing:

• Educational content: Show how to spot signs of pests.
• Behind the scenes: Introduce your team and show how you handle pest control.
• Before and after: Highlight how well your services work.
• Live Q&A: Answer pest-related questions from customers in real time.

RELATED ARTICLE: Marketing 101 for Pest Control Companies

Traditional Advertising

Traditional advertising may seem like a thing of the past, but it still reaches a hyperlocal audience. That has a different type of value. You reach the people in your community most likely to need your services and repeated exposure drives name and brand recognition.

Let’s take a closer look at 4 popular types of traditional advertising:

1. Newspaper Advertisement

Many homeowners still get the local newspaper delivered. This is a great way to get your pest control company out there and increase your customer base. To make the most of your print ads, follow these tips:

• Use a clear, catchy headline. Grab attention with a bold, easy-to-read message, such as “Say Goodbye to Pests for Good!”
• Include a special offer. Discounts or limited-time deals encourage readers to take action.
• Add a CTA. Tell people exactly what to do next, like “Call today for a free inspection!”
• Use high-quality images. A clean, eye-catching image can make your ad stand out.
• Target local readers. Choose newspapers that reach your ideal customers, such as community or neighborhood papers.

2. Vehicle Branding

Your company vehicle isn’t just for getting from one job to the next. It’s a moving billboard for your pest control business. Here’s how to turn every drive into a marketing opportunity:

• Go bold with a wrap. A bright, eye-catching wrap with your logo and contact info makes your business stand out.
• Keep it simple. Use large, easy-to-read fonts and minimal text so people can quickly understand your message.
• Add a CTA. A phrase like “Call for a Free Quote!” encourages potential customers to reach out.
• Park smart. Leave your vehicle in busy areas to increase visibility.
• Keep it clean. A well-maintained vehicle shows professionalism and builds trust.

3. Billboards

Billboards are just as effective as ever, with an 86% recall rate. That means potential customers are more likely to remember your brand. Here’s how to get your logo, business name, and phone number in front of more people:

• Keep it simple. Use a clear message and bold, easy-to-read text so drivers can absorb the information quickly.
• Choose a high-traffic location. Place your billboard on busy roads or near neighborhoods where homeowners might need pest control services.
• Use eye-catching colors and images. A bold design with a memorable graphic, such as a giant termite, can grab attention.
• Include a CTA. A short phrase like “Got pests? Call us today!” makes your ad more effective.
• Make contact info stand out. Ensure your phone number or website is large and legible from a distance.

4. Word of Mouth

Never underestimate the power of existing customers and a job well done. In fact, 74% of consumers identify word of mouth as the primary influencer in their purchasing decisions. Happy customers will spread the word about your company’s quality! Here’s how to let your work speak for itself:

• Start a referral program. Offer discounts or incentives for customers who refer friends and family.
• Encourage online reviews. Ask satisfied customers to leave reviews on Google, Yelp, or Facebook to build trust.
• Provide outstanding service. Exceed expectations so customers naturally recommend your business.
• Engage locally. Support local events or team up with nearby businesses to get more people talking about your company.
• Use testimonials. Feature real customer experiences on your website, social media, and ads.

RELATED ARTICLE: The Quick Start Guide to Winning New Customers

13 Effective Advertising Strategies to Get Pest Control Leads

Advertising can feel overwhelming because there are so many routes to take. Develop a plan for each platform and stay focused on your goals.

1. Know your competitors. 

What pest control services do your competitors offer? Familiarize yourself with the common services in your area, then research any extras your competitors offer. Learn what the expected pricing per job is. This information can help you develop competitive marketing strategies.

2. Build your brand. 

Establish your company’s values, practices, and image. This is what makes up your “brand.” Your company’s brand can help establish trust and familiarity in your community. 

3. Create a high-quality website. 

This may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s important to have a concise website that is easy to navigate. User experience is extremely important to the success of your website. It needs to be engaging, informative, and accurate. Make sure to include crucial information such as your phone number, services, and hours.

Many online tools can help you build your site, but it may help to involve a professional. They have a grasp of digital best practices that will help your engagement and visibility.

4. Collect leads with landing pages. 

Landing pages are important for turning ad clicks into leads. When someone clicks on your pest control ad, they should be taken to a page that matches the ad. For example, if your ad is about a free termite inspection, the landing page should focus on that.

A clear landing page helps visitors understand what you’re offering. It also makes it easy for them to take action, such as booking a service or asking for a quote.

Use these tips to create a strong landing page:

• Keep it simple. Avoid clutter. Choose a clean design with easy navigation.
• Use a strong headline. Your headline should grab attention and match the ad’s promise.
• Highlight your offer. Make your special deal or service stand out. Visitors should know what’s in it for them.
• Add social proof. Add testimonials or reviews to build trust and show others’ positive experiences.
• Optimize for mobile. Many users will visit your page on their phones. Make sure it looks great and works smoothly on all devices.
• Test and tweak. Regularly check how your landing page is performing. Test different headlines, images, or CTAs to see what works best.

To increase conversions, your landing page should meet users’ expectations. A great way to improve it is by testing different headlines, images, and CTA button colors to see what works best.

Another important factor is page speed. If your page takes more than three seconds to load, customers may leave before they see your offer. Use free tools such as Google PageSpeed Insights or GTmetrix to make it faster.

Also, consider adding a chatbot or instant quote tool. This makes it easy for customers to ask questions or get price estimates, speeding up the process.

5. Offer incentives.

Consider offering deals and promotions in your campaigns. Incentives will attract new customers to your business and keep your pest control services competitive.

6. Use social media and partnerships. 

Capitalize on social media marketing as much as possible. Paid campaigns are a great option. Don’t be afraid to reach out to influencers and other local businesses to collaborate and spread the word about your services.

7. Target ads to specific demographics. 

Do some research about the demographics in your area. Targeting the right audience helps your ads reach people who actually need pest control services. Instead of showing your ads to everyone, focus on people who are most likely to be interested in your business. Here’s how: 

• Use social media targeting. Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn let you target ads based on age, location, interests, and behavior. For your pest control business, you can target local homeowners who might need your services.
• Leverage Google Ads. Google Ads lets you target users based on their search history, location, and visited websites. If someone searches for “best pest control near me,” your ad can appear front and center.
• Organize your email list. For email campaigns, divide your audience into groups based on past services or location. This helps you send more relevant ads and increase engagement.
• Retarget interested users. Ever visited a website and later seen ads for that same brand? That’s retargeting. Set up digital ads to remind people about your business. This targets those who’ve visited your site or interacted with your content.
• Test and adjust. Once your ads are running, check how they’re doing. Are people clicking on them? Are they booking services? If not, adjust your audience settings to get better results.

8. Stay informative.

Sharing helpful information is a great way to build trust and attract new customers. When people feel informed, they’re more likely to choose your business. Stay on top of industry trends to show that you’re up to date with the latest solutions.

Create simple how-to guides for your website or newsletters, offering tips on common pest problems and solutions. You can also use Instagram stories or posts to share quick tips, fun facts, or customer reviews.

You can also host live Q&A sessions on Facebook or Instagram, where you can answer questions and give advice. The more you share your knowledge, the more people will trust your services when they need pest control.

9. Use infographics for online advertising.

An infographic is an image that displays information in a simple format, such as pie charts and bar graphs. Using these in ads will help your company seem helpful and professional from the start.

You can create infographics using design tools like Canva.

10. Integrate testimonials.

Incorporate testimonials into your social media, website, and pay-per-click advertisements. You can request these from satisfied customers via your website, email, or even Yelp. Testimonials help increase trust with new customers. 

11. Schedule posts and campaigns.

Stay organized by planning and scheduling your ads in advance. This way, you won’t miss important promotions or forget to post key updates. 

Using a scheduling tool can help you stay on track and keep your content consistent. Set reminders for campaign posts or launches so you can focus on other tasks without worrying about timing.

12. Incorporate CRM systems.

Customer relationship management (CRM) software helps you stay organized and keep track of customer interactions. It can automate responses to customers who show interest so you can respond quickly and consistently. 

With a CRM, you can manage follow-ups and personalize communication. This leads to better service, happier customers, and more conversions. For pest control businesses, it helps turn leads into loyal customers.

13. Stay current with SEO practices.

Get familiar with the keywords that are relevant to pest control. Continue to research changes in the market and reflect those changes in your ads. This will help you funnel internet traffic to your ads and website.

RELATED ARTICLE: 8 Ways to Maximize Your Pest Control Income

Tracking Pest Control Ad Performance

Tracking your ad performance helps you see how well your ads are doing. Without tracking, you might spend money on ads that don’t work. 

By checking key numbers, you can find what needs improvement. This way, you can make your ads more effective, reach the right people, and use your marketing budget wisely. 

Here’s how to measure digital ad success:

• Monitor click-through rates (CTR). This shows how many people clicked your ad compared to how many saw it. A higher CTR means your ad is getting attention.
• Check conversion rates. This tells you how many visitors take action after clicking your ad. A high conversion rate means your landing page is working well.
• Use UTM parameters. Add UTM tags to your ad links to track which ads are bringing visitors to your site. This helps you see which ads are doing the best.
• Track return on ad spend (ROAS). This shows how much money you’re making for every dollar spent on ads. It helps you see if your ads are profitable.
• Set up Google Analytics and Facebook Insights. These tools provide data about your audience, like who’s clicking your ads and how they’re behaving. Use these to improve your targeting and strategy.

Here’s how to track traditional ad performance:

• Use unique phone numbers or codes. Set up a special phone number or code just for your traditional ads. This helps you track how many calls or sales come from those ads.
• Survey customers. Ask customers how they heard about you when they book a service. This helps you figure out which ads are working.
• Monitor website visits or foot traffic. If you run print or TV ads, check if you see more website visitors or people coming into your store after the ad runs.

Track local leads. For local radio or TV ads, check if you get more leads from the area where your ad is running.

4 Steps You Can Take Today

Marketing your pest control company can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Keep your focus on your customer’s needs and let your campaign follow. Here are some first steps toward developing effective advertising.

1. Develop your strategy. Think about where your potential customers spend their time. Do suburban homes need more residential pest control? Will a billboard on a major street will keep your name top of mind? Do the bulk of homeowners spend their digital time on Facebook? Concentrate your time wherever your customers do. 
2. Build a website. This is potentially the most important step in creating a digital brand. Almost everything, even print advertising, will lead back to your website. It should be informative, easy to navigate, and accurate.
3. Establish your digital presence. Set up business pages on Google and social media platforms. Multiple pages will ensure you’re seen by different audiences.

Research different platforms. It never hurts to spread your efforts, but you don’t want to waste your time. A little research into the ROI of different platforms in your area can go a long way. Then you can put effort into the areas that give you the best return.