Google Local Services Ads are one of the best advertising options for small local businesses. They connect you with people who search on Google for your exact services. It’s a pay per lead program, meaning you only pay for the results, not for the clicks. You can set your own budget, and increase, decrease, or pause your spend at any time! If you’re curious about how much to spend, Google built a budget recommendation tool.
SUGGESTED READING: What are Google Local Services Ads?
Google recently released updates to its Local Services Ads platform that expands how and when a local business can receive leads.
Google Testing “Message Leads”
In addition to phone calls, Google is now testing message leads for the following job types: Roofing, Windows, Siding, HVAC, Carpet Cleaner, and House Cleaner (and more are coming soon). If you have opted to receive these types of leads, your customers can get in touch with you two ways. They can call you directly or send you a message. In both cases, you’ll be notified about the new lead by email.
When you click the link in your email notification, you can view more details about the lead from your lead dashboard. Message leads can be responded to with a direct call or a message sent from your lead inbox.
Receive Leads Before Your Ad Goes Live
Google now offers “pre-badge ads” to home services and professional services verticals, with the exception of the locksmith and garage door verticals. Having a pre-badge ad allows a business to appear in Local Services search results and begin generating leads before passing the background check. A background check is still a vital piece of the equation, so Google encourages you to submit your check within 30 days of setting up your account. Your ad will not display a Google Guarantee badge until all onboarding requirements are passed.
The eligibility requirements for pre-badge ads are:
- A passed license check.
- One or more Google reviews.
- Complete billing details.
Getting Started
As a Google Premier Partner, Surefire Local is in a unique position to help local businesses get through the verification process. Our dedicated team will guide you through each step and most importantly, has direct communication with the background check company. The background check process can seem taxing but with us as the “middle man”, we can provide updates on the status to help give you peace of mind. With our help, your ads and lead dashboard will be ready much quicker than if you went at it alone.