Have you ever been in a new city and needed something to eat fast? You may have found yourself Googling “fast food near me”and had a host of convenient eateries pop up on your search results page. What you may not realize is those handy dandy suggestions at the top of your screen are actually Google Local Service Ads (LSAs).
If you’re a business trying to target local customers, you’re going to want to tune in. Let’s explore how LSAs can benefit your business, whether you want to sell to locals or those visiting your area.
What Are Google Local Service Ads?
Google Local Service Ads (LSAs) are a type of online advertisement that helps local businesses connect with potential customers right when they are actively searching for services. Unlike traditional Google Ads, LSAs are designed to promote businesses offering specific services in a particular location. For example, if you need an electrician, a search for “electricians near me” will trigger Google Local Service Ads to appear at the top of the search results, making it easier for customers to find businesses like yours.
These ads are unique because they are shown only to users who are specifically looking for the types of services your business offers, and they are placed above traditional search ads. Google LSAs are structured to give users the information they need upfront, including a business’s name, phone number, ratings, and a “Google Guaranteed” badge, adding a level of credibility.
Why Are Google Local Service Ads Important?
Google Local Service Ads are important because as local businesses continue to grow their online presence, standing out on search engines is more critical than ever. Google Local Service Ads provide a direct way for businesses to be seen by people who are actively searching for services like theirs. These ads place your business at the very top of the search engine results page (SERP), increasing visibility and significantly improving the chances of generating leads.
Local businesses in competitive industries, such as retail, healthcare, and hospitality, can particularly benefit from LSAs. They help reduce the clutter of traditional paid search results, making it easier for businesses to be noticed without as extensive search engine optimization (SEO) efforts. By targeting users within a specific geographic area, LSAs ensure that your marketing dollars are spent on reaching the right people—those most likely to need your services.
Additionally, Google Local Service Ads offer the “Google Guaranteed” badge, which builds trust with potential customers. This badge indicates that your business has passed Google’s background checks, providing a sense of security for users who may be hesitant about hiring a service provider.
Key Features of Google Local Service Ads
Google Local Service Ads come with several distinctive features that make them stand out among other online ads. Here are some key aspects to keep in mind:
- Placement at the Top of Search Results: Unlike traditional Google Ads, which appear below organic results, LSAs are placed at the very top of search results. This premium placement ensures higher visibility and makes it easier for customers to find your business.
- Google Guaranteed Badge: Businesses that pass Google’s background checks are awarded the “Google Guaranteed” badge. This feature provides users with a sense of security, letting them know they are hiring a reliable service provider. This badge is only available to businesses that have undergone Google’s vetting process, including insurance and licensing verification.
- Pay Per Lead, Not Per Click: With LSAs, you only pay when you receive a lead, not when a user clicks on your ad. This pay-per-lead model can make advertising costs more predictable and cost-effective for businesses.
- Business Profile: Your LSA includes a business profile that shows essential information such as your business name, phone number, ratings, reviews, and hours of operation. This allows customers to make quick decisions and contact you directly from the ad.
- Lead Management: LSAs come with tools that allow businesses to manage incoming leads directly from their Google Ads dashboard. This enables efficient follow-up and ensures no potential customer is left behind.
Benefits of Using Google Local Service Ads
There are several benefits to using Google Local Service Ads, especially if your business relies on local customers. Below are some key advantages:
Increased Visibility and Leads
By appearing at the top of Google search results, LSAs significantly increase your business’s visibility to potential customers. When someone searches for services in your area, your business will be one of the first they see, putting you at an advantage over competitors.
Targeted Advertising
LSAs help you target the right customers by showing your ads to people actively searching for services in your local area. This laser-focused targeting increases the likelihood of conversion since your business is being promoted to a relevant audience.
Cost-Effective Marketing
Unlike traditional Google Ads where you pay for each click, LSAs use a pay-per-lead model. This ensures you only pay when a potential customer contacts your business, making it a more cost-effective solution compared to other types of digital ads.
Build Trust with the Google Guaranteed Badge
Having the “Google Guaranteed” badge on your ad adds credibility to your business. Customers are more likely to trust a service provider with this badge, as it signals that your business has passed a thorough background check, including necessary licensing and insurance.
Better Lead Quality
Since Google Local Service Ads are designed to show up only for relevant searches, you’re more likely to attract high-quality leads. This is especially important for service-based businesses where finding the right customer can make all the difference.
Easy Lead Management
With built-in tools to manage and track your leads, LSAs make it simple for businesses to follow up with potential customers. You can respond to leads promptly and ensure that no opportunity is missed.
Need help getting started on your Google Local Service Ads (LSAs)? Legit Click Media has the expertise in Google Local Services to get you going! Give us a call at 920-214-4025 or reach out here to get in touch.
