If you have local customers, then you need to know all about a new development from Google.
Have you noticed the small green ticks appearing in the Google search results recently? That’s the new Google Guarantee badge which is available for businesses that pass a Google screening and verification process through Local Services Ads.
A Google Guarantee badge will make you stand out much more than any other Google ad extension but if your ads are competing with ads that are Google Guaranteed, expect to see your clicks and conversions decrease.
We have now implemented this feature for some of our clients and the results are quite remarkable with a significant uptake in enquiries. So, if you provide local services, are confident in the quality of your work and you’re also a Google AdWords advertiser, then the Google Guarantee is an absolute must.
But bear in mind that once you are Google Guaranteed, if customers that came to you through Local Services Ads aren’t happy with the quality of your work, Google may reimburse the customer up to the full amount paid for the initial service. There is a £1,500 upper lifetime limit per customer. No ifs and buts, it’s entirely at the discretion of Google.
It really does appear that Google users are seeing the new Guaranteed Badge as a reason to trust that advertiser. And why should that be a surprise? Google has offered an excellent and unmatched service to their users since Day 1. So now, they can be sure that it’s safe to do business with you because they will have an independent arbiter in the case of an issue with your work.
How does the application process work?
When you apply, Google will check your business out thoroughly. They will need to see evidence of your insurance, they will look at your online reviews and they’ll also conduct background checks at no cost to you. The background of the owner is checked and other backgrounds may be checked depending on the nature of your business.
Once you have the badge your ads will inherit the guarantee. Thereafter you’re covered by the Guarantee. In order for a claim to be made, any work must have been booked directly via the Local Services Ad and any claim must be made within 30 days of completion of the job. The claim can only be for the original work described with no additions for damages etc. It also must be for the amount on the invoice.
The setup process can be a headache, but we highly recommend this new Google service and can look after everything on your behalf.
For further information or to discuss your own situation please email us or call us on 01625 613 633.
