This may sound too good to be true, but we assure you it’s not… as long as you understand the finer points of Google advertising. At Open Door Digital we love local businesses (naturally!) and this blog will show you the power of Google Local Services Ads to reach more customers, with a more predictable budget.
What are Google Local Services Ads?
Conventional “pay per click” Google advertising is the better known of Google’s advertising services, this is where you pay every time someone clicks through to your website.
Local Services Ads are charged differently: you only pay for the ad when the customer sends you a message or calls you (and if the caller hangs up and doesn’t actually connect, you won’t be charged.)
In addition, Local Services Ads are shown at the very top of the search results, meaning they are the most visible element on the page, appearing above traditional Google Search Ads.
An important note: Google Local Services ads are only available to some types of business. If you’re eligible, we recommend making it part of your digital marketing strategy.
Who can use Google Local Services Ads?
This service aims to connect search users with businesses local to them who provide skilled labour or trades. Many Uckfield-based businesses are eligible, for example: appliance repair services, fencing services, flooring services, HVAC services, landscaping and garden services, tree services, window cleaning and many more.
Google gives a full list of the types of businesses that can use Google Local Services Ads on its website.
How can I take advantage of Google Local Services Ads?
You need to:
- Register and create a profile, including adding details about your business.
- Undergo checks which may include providing proof of business insurance and industry accreditation.
- Ensure you have a full Google Business Profile including some positive reviews.
- Do what you can to get your ad in the top three Local Services Ads for your area.
- Respond to enquiries quickly within Google’s built-in CRM.
For more details on each of these points and other tips based on our expertise in running Local Services Ads campaigns for our clients, here’s our full article on the about Google Local Services Ads.