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Facebook Ads - Do they Really Work and What You can Get Wrong with Katie Colella


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This week I'm chatting with Katie Colella, a meta ads specialist who knows her stuff when it comes to Facebook and Instagram ads. And yes, they can work for short-term rentals and glamping sites – when done properly!

We're cutting through the myths around paid ads. Katie explains why so many hosts think ads don't work (spoiler: they've probably just hit the boost button and hoped for the best), and what you actually need to do to make them effective.

In this episode, we talk about why the boost button isn't your friend and the difference between traffic ads and lead ads. Katie shares how to target your ideal guests without wasting money, and why building your email list matters more than vanity metrics. We also discuss when ads are worth the investment and, just as importantly, when they're not.

Katie's been running ads for years and actually owned a B&B herself, so she gets the challenges we face. No fancy jargon here – just practical advice on whether ads could work for your short-term rental business.

If you've been curious about Facebook ads but worried about throwing money down the drain, this episode will help you decide if they're right for you.

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Key Takeaways:

  1. Don't dabble with ads – either do them properly with a strategy or don't bother
  2. The boost button is not a marketing strategy (seriously, stop using it!)
  3. Lead ads can help you grow your email list, which you actually own (unlike your social following)
  4. Target your ideal guests based on interests and demographics – the precision is powerful
  5. Test properly before dismissing ads – £50 spent randomly won't tell you anything useful
  6. Video view ads can keep you top of mind on a tiny budget (even £1 a day helps)

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Find out more about Katie:

Visit her Website

Connect on Instagram

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Do you have a marketing roadmap for your business?

No more winging it and feeling like you are in constant marketing chaos! Create your easy-to-follow marketing roadmap for the year ahead. My Direct Bookings Bootcamp is now available ON DEMAND! Let’s make this the best year yet for direct bookings! Head to my website for more info.

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What would you do with an extra £20k+ in your holiday business?

I've saved £100k in commission in 5 years by taking 100% direct bookings and now I show Airbnb hosts, holiday cottage and glampsite owners how to do the same.

It is easier than you think to move to 70%+ direct bookings.

If you currently rely on Airbnb or another online agent (OTA), take Sarah's FREE quiz here - it's time to give them the boot!

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Connect with Sarah:

Website

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Facebook

LinkedIn

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Get Fully BookedBy Sarah Orchard