A revenue generator that’s right for many local service businesses.

Local Service Ads Image

Have you noticed the Google Guaranteed badge on some Google search pages? If so, have you wondered what this is or if it’s right for your business? If you own a local service business, Google Local Services Ads (LSA’s) and the Google Guarantee program may be worth considering.

With Local Services Ads, you have the ability to advertise your business on Google and receive leads directly from potential customers. These ads appear at the top of Google search engine results pages and you only pay for qualified leads.

How Local Services Ads work

Local Services Ads are shown at the top of Google Search results pages when people search for the services you offer in your area. Potential customers can click on your ad to either call you or send you a message. You’ll receive a notification from Google. It’s then up to you to nurture the lead.

Searchers will also see the green checkmark alongside the “Google Guarantee.” In addition to catching users’ attention, this enables businesses to benefit from Google’s endorsement. Every ad includes customer ratings and reviews and Local Services Ads ensure your reviews appear on the SERP. You automatically apply for the Google guarantee when you sign up for LSA’s and there is an approval process to qualify.

Additional benefits:

  • Connect with potential customers who are searching for services you provide and are most likely to book.
  • Additional visibility on key search pages. If you’re already generating organic, paid or Google MyBusiness visibility, your business is more likely to generate sales opportunities with the additional listing.
  • Differentiate your business from competitors.
  • Increase the likelihood of your business being mentioned for voice activated search. Local Service Ads are one of the few ways you can increase the likelihood that you’re found on devices powered by Google Assistant.
  • Pay only for leads related to your business and the services you offer.
  • Customers choose you: You only hear from customers who have specifically selected your profile out of all the rest.

Google Local Services Ads

Costs are based on the business type. Businesses in the following categories are currently eligible to participate in the program in Minnesota, with more categories being added:

  • Appliance Repair
  • House Cleaning
  • Moving Companies
  • Roofing Services
  • Window Cleaning
  • Carpet Cleaning
  • HVAC
  • Locksmiths
  • Pest Control
  • Tree Services
  • Water Damage Restoration

The below additional business categories are included in other states:

  • Auto Glass Service
  • Event Planners
  • Home Improvement Pro
  • Moving Services
  • Pest Control Technician
  • Pet Groomer
  • Tutors
  • Window Service Providers
  • Auto Service Technicians
  • Handyman Services
  • Junk Removal Providers
  • Painters
  • Pet Care Providers
  • Roadside Assistance Services
  • Upholstery Cleaner

In order to qualify, businesses are required to complete a screening process. This includes meeting relevant insurance and licensing requirements and criminal background checks for employees. Guidelines are needed as Google is guaranteeing the work, which is an additional incentive for potential new customers to contact service providers who are enrolled in the program. This is also a great selling point for service providers.

Once approved, it’s important to optimize your profile and your business. Google calculates your LSA rank based on a number of factors including:

  • Your proximity to potential customers’ locations
  • Your review score and the number of reviews you receive
  • Your responsiveness to customer inquiries and requests
  • Your business hours
  • Whether or not we’ve received serious or repeated complaints about your business

If you’re a local service business that falls under the above-mentioned categories, Local Search Ads may be worth testing. Not only are they highly visible, they are also measurable and can be very cost effective. LSA’s are not for every business, yet can be an important part of an overall Digital Marketing strategy. For additional information on Local Search Ads or to see if Local Search Ads are right for you, please contact Dashboard Interactive at 763-242-2454 or send us a message.