As a local service business owner, you know that standing out in a crowded marketplace can be challenging. One way to set yourself apart from the competition is by obtaining Google Guaranteed status for your business. This designation, which is earned through a rigorous verification process, provides potential customers with added peace of mind that they are working with a reputable and trustworthy company. In this blog post, we will take a deep dive into what Google Guaranteed is, the benefits it can offer your business and the steps you need to take to earn this valuable designation.

What is Google Guaranteed?

Google Guaranteed is a program that verifies local service businesses and gives them a special badge on Google search and Google Maps. This badge lets customers know that the business has been vetted by Google and meets certain quality standards. Businesses that are Google Guaranteed have passed a background check, including a review of their business license, insurance, and customer reviews.

Eligible businesses include those that provide home services, such as handymen, house cleaners, and locksmiths, as well as other services, such as pet grooming, tutoring, and personal training.

Benefits of Google Guaranteed

Having the Google Guaranteed badge on your listing can provide several benefits for your business. For one, it can increase customer trust and credibility, as it shows that you have been vetted by a reputable third party. Additionally, Google Guaranteed businesses might receive higher visibility on Google search and Maps, which can lead to more potential customers seeing your listing.

Additionally, Google Guaranteed businesses might have an advantage when it comes to Local Services Ads (LSAs), a pay-per-lead advertising program that allows businesses to place ads at the top of Google search results for specific services. Google Guaranteed businesses are able to participate in LSAs and may be more likely to be selected for these ads over non-verified businesses.

How to Get Google Guaranteed?

To become Google Guaranteed, a business must first sign up for the Local Services by Google program and pass a background check. The background check includes verification of your business license, insurance, and reviews from past customers.

If your business meets the requirements and passes the background check, you will be given the Google Guaranteed badge to display on your Google My Business listing and on your website. It's important to note that Google may conduct random quality checks on Guaranteed businesses to ensure that they continue to meet the program's standards.

As you can see, becoming Google Guaranteed can be a valuable asset for local service businesses looking to increase visibility, credibility, and customer trust. By following the steps outlined in this post, you can work towards earning the Google Guaranteed badge for your business.

The Impact of Google Guaranteed on Local Service Businesses

Google Guaranteed can have a significant impact on local service businesses that are able to obtain this designation. The badge can increase visibility and credibility, leading to more potential customers seeing your listing and trusting your business. But what does the data say about the impact of Google Guaranteed on local service businesses?

Increased Visibility

Businesses that have the Google Guaranteed badge may receive higher visibility on Google search and Maps. According to a study by BrightLocal, Google Guaranteed businesses are twice as likely to be in the top 3 Local Service Ads (LSAs) as non-Google Guaranteed businesses. This means that Google Guaranteed businesses have a higher chance of being seen by potential customers when they search for services related to your business.

Boost in Credibility

Google Guaranteed also gives businesses credibility, as it shows that the business has been vetted by a reputable third party. According to a survey by Reputation.com, 84% of consumers trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations. Having the Google Guaranteed badge on your listing can help you build trust with potential customers, as they know that you have been vetted by Google.

Increase in Leads

Google Guaranteed can also lead to an increase in leads for local service businesses. According to data from Google, Local Services Ads (LSAs) generate an average of 30% more leads per dollar spent compared to other online lead-generation methods. Google Guaranteed businesses are able to participate in LSAs, which can increase their chances of generating leads.

As we can see from the data, Google Guaranteed can have a significant impact on local service businesses. By increasing visibility, credibility, and leads, the badge can help businesses stand out in a crowded marketplace and attract more customers.

Maximizing the Benefits of Google Guaranteed

As a local service business owner, you want to make sure that you are getting the most out of your Google Guaranteed status. Here are some tips to help you maximize the benefits of the badge:

1. Display the Google Guaranteed badge prominently on your website and on your Google My Business listing. This will help potential customers easily identify that you are a Google Guaranteed business.

2. Encourage customers to leave reviews on your Google My Business listing. Positive reviews can help boost your visibility on Google search and Maps.

3. Make sure that your business information is up to date on your Google My Business listing. This includes your hours of operation, contact information, and services offered.

4. Utilize Local Services Ads (LSAs) to increase your visibility and generate leads. LSAs allow you to place ads at the top of Google search results for specific services, which can help you stand out from the competition.

5. Take advantage of Google's Local Services marketplace. This allows customers to find, contact, and book their services directly with you through Google.

In conclusion, Google Guaranteed can be a valuable asset for local service businesses looking to increase visibility, credibility, and customer trust. By following the steps outlined in this post, you can work towards earning the Google Guaranteed badge for your business and maximizing its benefits. If you need help with your digital marketing efforts, WD Morgan Solutions can help. Contact us at doug@wdmorgan.com or 727-210-5044.