Are you a local business owner looking to get more calls from people who need your services right now? Google Local Service Ads (LSA) might be just what you need! These special ads help connect you with customers in your area who are ready to hire someone like you.
What Are Local Service Ads?
Local Service Ads are a type of Google ad that appears at the very top of search results when people look for local services. Unlike regular ads, these show your business name, review rating, hours, and that important “Google Screened” or “Google Guaranteed” badge. This badge tells customers they can trust you.
Google Local Service Ads work differently from other ads. Instead of paying for clicks, you only pay when a potential customer calls or messages you through the ad. This means you’re only paying for real leads!
What You Need to Get Started
Setting up Local Service Ads takes some work, but it’s worth it! Here’s what you’ll need:
1. Pass a Background Check
Google wants to make sure it’s promoting trustworthy businesses. This means:
- Business owner background check
- Sometimes checks for key employees, too
- This process can take 2-3 weeks, so plan!
2. Get Your Business Documents Ready
Different industries need different paperwork. Some common requirements include:
- Business license
- Insurance proof
- Professional certifications
- State or local permits
Having all these documents ready and up-to-date will speed up your approval process by weeks!
Tips for Google LSA Success
Keep Your Business Information Perfect
Make sure all your information is correct and stays that way:
- Business hours
- Service areas (be specific about which zip codes you serve)
- Services you offer
- The phone number that someone answers
Even small mistakes can hurt your chances of showing up in searches or could bring you the wrong kinds of calls.
Screen Every Call
Not every call will be a good fit for your business. When you get LSA leads:
- Ask what service they need
- Confirm they’re in your service area
- Check if their timeline works for you
- Take notes about the conversation
Remember, you can dispute charges for leads that aren’t a good match, but you need good notes to do this!
Check Your Google LSA Profile Often
The world of Google search is always changing. At least once a month:
- Update your services if you’ve added new ones
- Check that your service area is still correct
- Make sure your hours are up to date
- Look at which searches are bringing you leads
Don’t Forget Negative Keywords
Negative keywords tell Google when NOT to show your ad. This is just as important as regular keywords!
For example, if you’re a plumber who doesn’t do sewer line repairs, you might add “sewer line” as a negative keyword. This helps you avoid paying for leads from customers looking for services you don’t offer.
Using negative keywords means:
- Better quality leads
- Less wasted money
- Happier customers who find exactly what they need
Google LSA Works Best With SEO and Google Business Profile
Local Service Ads work great, but they have limits. For the best results, combine them with:
- Strong SEO: Good Search Engine Optimization helps your regular listings show up, too, giving you more chances to be found.
Â
Â
- Updated Google Business Profile: Your Google Business Profile helps your business show up on Google Maps and in local searches. Keep it updated with fresh photos, posts, and correct information.
Â
Â
Using all three approaches gives you the best chance of being found by local customers.
Why Choose COSMarketing Agency
At COSMarketing Agency, we create custom Google LSA strategies for each client. Unlike some agencies that use templates, we build new, original campaigns based on your specific business needs.
Our team stays up-to-date with all the latest Google LSA changes so your campaigns always follow best practices. We handle everything from setup to ongoing optimization.
Ready to Get Started? Don’t miss out on the powerful leads that local service ads can bring to your business. Schedule a meeting with our team today to learn how we can help you navigate Google LSA and grow your local customer base! To learn more and schedule your FREE marketing assessment, call or text 407-334-9378; email us at COSMarketingAgency@gmail.com, or use the calendar link below.
