Take Your Business To The Next Level: Google Screened 101

Everyone knows that online visibility is essential in today’s digital world, and businesses are no exception to such a statement. 

In the battle to gain credibility across the web, many company owners know that raking among the SERPs’ first five positions is not enough. Tools like reviews can help potential customers understand a company’s vision and service and lead them to hire or buy what the business offers. 

However, when it comes to local businesses, other tools can come in handy to help you gain credibility quickly. Join us as we take you through the world of Google Local Service Ads and one of its main features, Google Screened. 

Google Local Service Ads — The Beginning

Before we step into the Google Screened field, we must understand where it comes from. Google Local Service Ads, also known as Google LSAs, is a local SEO tool launched by the search engine in 2015. 

One main difference between this service and Google Ads is that, while the latter works through a PPC format, Google LSAs only charge per lead, making this a particularly helpful tool for local businesses. It works by showcasing the advertised business on top of local search results, providing a higher chance to reach potential customers. 

Additionally, the platform offers two features that are highly sought after: Google Screened and Google Guaranteed. 

What Is Google Screened?

Google Screened is a program that is part of the Google LSA features. It works by providing a badge to businesses after going through a careful background check performed by Google. 

Once a business is approved to get the badge, which appears in the Google LSA as a green checkmark, it is easier to gain credibility from potential clients and an overall positive online reputation. 

It is crucial to highlight that this program is available for specific verticals in the US and UK as of 2023. 

Google Screened Eligibility

Google Screened works by providing its badge to specific professionals, who must go through a background check which includes revisions of licenses and other credentials. The professionals who can opt to get a Google Screened badge are: 

• Lawyers. 
• Financial planners. 
• Childcare service providers. 

Furthermore, these professionals can start their Google Screened process in specific areas: 

• Beauty providers: Available in California and Florida. 
• Auto care providers: Available in California and Florida. 

The requirements are different depending on the vertical. For example, Google Screened for lawyers requires verification of licenses, insurance, and other documents, whereas financial planners go through business-level and business-owner background checks, as well as individual background checks for each professional who is part of the business in the process. 

Google Screened V.s Google Guaranteed

Another excellent feature of Google Local Service Ads is Google Guaranteed. It could be easy to believe that these badges are interchangeable at first glance, especially if you’re getting familiarized with Google LSA and its features. 

While Google Screened works for professional service providers, Google Guaranteed focuses on home improvement businesses. Locksmiths, pet grooming, pest control, garage door installation, lawn care, and many other services can opt to get a Google Guaranteed badge.  

One of the main reasons it can be easier to gain potential customers’ trust through the Google Guaranteed badge is that the program focuses on guaranteeing they can get a reimbursement if they are not satisfied with the service they got. However, it is essential to emphasize that this feature does not work just by hiring a service provider with a Guaranteed badge but by hiring them through the LSAs. 

Changing The Game For Local Businesses With Local SEO

SEO efforts are the most effective way to get online visibility, but not everything works the same for global businesses and local ones. 

For example, things such as search results vary from a global or local query. There are notable differences in the SERPs depending on what the users search for, which means SEO experts must adequate their efforts to the businesses’ target audience. Google offers tools such as Google Business Profile, Google Local Service Ads, and Google Local Pack for local SEO experts. 

Platforms like Google Business Profile are an excellent tool for local businesses as they help you provide specific information about the company, such as name, address, and phone number (NAP). Furthermore, it allows you to add business hours, get reviews and ratings from customers, add photos and videos of the establishment, and, for businesses in the hospitality industry, you can add menus with prices and photos of the items. 

Google Business Profile also allows businesses that work through appointments to add booking links to the profile, making it easier for potential clients to hire the service or products the businesses offer. 

The Bottom Line:

Google Screened is one of the most helpful tools for local businesses that wish to get online visibility and trust simultaneously. Google Local Ads can help you stand out in local search results and consequently see a boost in your revenue. 

Consider working with local SEO experts who specialize in Google Local Ads and Google Business Profile optimization, as they can take your efforts to the next level. Thank you for reading!