Table of Contents
How to Build a Google Guaranteed Business: The Complete Guide
Step 1: Determine eligibility
Check your industry
Google Guarantee supports specific industries such as:
- Locksmiths
- Plumber
- Electrician
- HVAC service
- Home cleaning services
- Equipment repair service
- Garage door service
- Other household services
Verify service areas
Make sure your business operates in areas supported by Google Local Services Ads. These are typically major metropolitan areas but can vary by industry and region.
Step 2: Set up a Google My Business (GMB) account
Create your GMB account
- Visit Google My Business: Go to Google My Business.
- Sign In: Use your Google Account to sign in.
- Enter Business Information: Provide your business name, address, service areas and contact details.
Verify your business
- Choose Verification Method: Google offers verification via mail, phone or email.
- Full Verification: Follow the instructions provided by Google to verify your business.
Step 3: Apply for Google Local Services Ads
Start Application
- VISIT LSA PAGE: Go to Google Local Services Ads page.
- Sign in: Use your Google Account credentials.
- Provide Business Details: Enter your business information including the services you offer, hours of operation and service areas.
Step 4: Complete a background check
Do a background check on the business owner
Google requires a background check on the business owner. including:
- Identity verification.
- Criminal background check.
Business Verification
Provide necessary documents for your business, such as:
- Proof of business licenses.
- Proof of insurance cover.
Employee Background Check
If applicable, ensure that background checks are conducted on employees who will perform the service.
Step 5: Submit proof of licenses and insurance
Commercial Licenses
Make sure you have the necessary business licenses for your industry. Submit copies to Google for verification.
General Liability Insurance
Provide proof of your general liability insurance coverage. It protects against claims for bodily injury or property damage.
Workers Compensation Insurance
If you have employees, submit proof of workers’ compensation insurance.
Step 6: Pass the screening and verification process
Reviewed by Google
Google will review your application, background check results and documents. This process can take several weeks.
Providing accurate information
Ensure that all information submitted is accurate and up-to-date to avoid delays in the verification process.
Step 7: Complete the LSA Profile
Finalize your profile
- Login: Access your Local Services Ads account.
- Add Service Details: Include the specific services you offer, pricing and business hours.
- Upload Photos: Add high-quality photos of your work or business premises.
Step 8: Optimize your profile and ads
Encourage reviews
Ask satisfied customers to leave positive reviews on your Google My Business profile.
Respond to inquiries and reviews
Respond promptly to customer inquiries and reviews to demonstrate good customer service.
Adjust the advertising budget
Set and adjust your advertising budget based on your business needs and the competition in your area.
Step 9: Maintaining Compliance
Maintain licenses and insurance
Update your business licenses and insurance information regularly to comply with Google’s requirements.
Provide excellent customer service
Maintain high service standards to ensure customer satisfaction and positive reviews.
Update Business Information
Keep your business information up to date with services offered, pricing and contact details.
Benefits of Google Guarantee
Increased confidence
The Google Guarantee badge signals reliability and quality to potential customers, building trust and credibility.
Lead Generation
Higher visibility in local search results and the ability to get more qualified leads through Google Local Services Ads.
Consumer Protection
Customers are protected by Google’s guarantee, which offers reimbursement up to a certain amount if they are unsatisfied with your service.
Expenses
Lead-based pricing
Google charges for leads, not clicks. Cost per lead varies by industry, location and competition.
Conclusion
Becoming a Google Guaranteed Business involves a detailed application and verification process, but it can significantly boost your local marketing efforts. By ensuring compliance and maintaining high service standards, you can leverage this program to attract more local customers and grow your business.
Is Google Guarantee Free
Google Guarantee is not free; Service providers pay for local service ads on a per-lead basis. This program requires businesses to pass a background check and maintain an accurate Google My Business profile. It offers a badge for reliable services and a customer reimbursement guarantee up to a specified amount. Costs and specific reimbursement amounts vary by service type and location.
Is Google Guaranteed Worth It
Deciding whether Google Guaranteed is a good fit depends on several factors. The program provides badges for businesses that pass background checks and a money-back guarantee for customers, which can build trust and increase potential leads. For service-based businesses, it can increase credibility and visibility in local search results. However, this requires a monthly fee and compliance with certain guidelines. Evaluating its value involves comparing the price to the increase in qualified leads and conversion rates. In summary, the increased trust and leads are worthwhile if they justify the cost to your particular business.