What Are Google Screened Ads?
Google Screened Ads are a type of paid advertisement specifically designed to build trust and credibility for professional service providers. These ads appear at the top of Google search results with a special badge, indicating that the business has passed extensive background checks and met Google’s stringent quality standards. This badge assures potential customers that the business is reputable, trustworthy, and reliable, leading to increased visibility and customer confidence.
How to Get a Google Screened Badge
To earn the coveted Google Screened badge, your business must undergo a rigorous verification process. Here’s a breakdown of the key steps:
- Meet Eligibility Criteria: Ensure your business operates in a qualifying industry and meets Google’s specific requirements.
- Complete Background Checks: Both your business and its owners will undergo comprehensive background checks.
- Verify Licenses and Credentials: Provide proof of all necessary licenses and certifications relevant to your business.
- Address Verification: Confirm the physical address of your business location.
- Meet Google’s Quality Standards: Your business must adhere to Google’s guidelines for providing excellent customer service.
By successfully completing these steps, your business can earn the Google Screened badge and enjoy increased trust and credibility among potential customers.
Eligible Categories for Google Screened Ads
Google Screened Ads are currently available for professional services in specific industries. Eligible categories include:
- Lawyers
- Financial Planners
- Real Estate Agents
- Accountants
- Dentists
- Child Care Providers
These categories were chosen because they require a high level of trust and professionalism, making the Google Screened badge particularly valuable for these service providers.
How the New Google Local Service Ads Works
- Be Found at the TOP of Google
- Build Trust by earning the Google Screened Badge
- You only pay for real qualified phone leads NOT fake clicks
- When a potential client searches for your service in your geographic market, your business appears at the top of their browser with:
- The name of your business
- A photo
- A “Google Screened” badge
- Your hours of operation
- And a call button so the potential client can phone your business
Why You Need the Google Screened Badge
- Increased Trust and Credibility : The Google Screened badge signals to potential customers that your business has undergone rigorous vetting and background checks, establishing trust even before they click on your ad.
- Higher Visibility : Businesses with the Google Screened badge are more likely to appear at the top of search results, increasing visibility and the chances of attracting new clients.
- Competitive Edge : Having the Google Screened badge sets you apart from competitors who lack this endorsement, giving you a distinct advantage in the marketplace.
- Increased Customer Confidence : Customers are more likely to choose a business that has been verified by Google, as it provides an added layer of assurance regarding the quality and reliability of the services offered.
How much does Google Screened Local Ads cost?
Understanding the Cost Structure
Google Screened Ads operate on a pay-per-lead model, meaning you only pay when a potential customer contacts you. Here’s a breakdown of how the cost works:
- Set Your Budget: You have full control over your advertising spend by setting a weekly budget.
- Pay Per Lead: You’re charged only when a potential customer calls you and the call lasts longer than 30 seconds.
- Budget Cap: Your weekly budget acts as a ceiling, ensuring you won’t exceed your spending limit.
- Dispute Invalid Leads: If you receive a call that doesn’t meet your criteria, you can dispute it and potentially receive a refund.
- No Upfront Costs: There are no hidden fees or setup charges to become a Google Screened Ad.
What Is Google Guaranteed?
Google Guaranteed is another advertising program offered by Google that provides an additional layer of trust and security for customers. This program is available for a broader range of home services businesses, including plumbers, electricians, cleaners, and more. Businesses that pass Google’s verification process can earn the Google Guaranteed badge and offer a money-back guarantee to their customers.
How It Is Different from Google Screened Ads
Scope of Services
Google Screened Ads are limited to professional services such as legal, financial, and real estate, while Google Guaranteed covers a wider range of home services.
Verification Process
Both programs require businesses to pass background checks and verification processes, but Google Guaranteed also involves insurance and license checks specific to the home services industry.
Badge and Guarantee
Google Screened Ads display a badge indicating trust and credibility, whereas Google Guaranteed ads come with a badge and a money-back guarantee up to a certain amount if the customer is dissatisfied with the service.
Google Guaranteed vs. Google Screened: Which Is Better?
Google offers two distinct badges to enhance the credibility of local service businesses: Google Guaranteed and Google Screened. While both programs involve rigorous verification processes, they cater to different industries and offer distinct benefits.
| Google Guaranteed Badge | Google Screened Badge |
|---|---|
| Focused on Home Services | Focused on Professional Services |
| Financial guarantee (up to $2,000 in select countries) | No financial guarantee. |
| Business location verification required | Location verification is not always required |
| License and background checks required | License and background checks required |
| Required to appear in Google Assistant results | Not required to appear in Google Assistant results |
| Additional screening guidelines to qualify for the guarantee | No additional screening guidelines required |
So, Which Badge Is Right for Your Client?
The choice between Google Guaranteed and Google Screened primarily depends on your client’s industry and business model. Google has specific eligibility criteria for each program.
- Google Guaranteed is typically reserved for home service businesses such as plumbers, electricians, and HVAC technicians. It offers customers financial protection for services rendered.
- Google Screened is designed for professional services like lawyers, real estate agents, and financial planners. It verifies the business and owner’s credentials.
While there may be exceptions, Google’s guidelines generally dictate which badge is suitable for a particular business.
| Google Guaranteed | Google Screened |
|---|---|
| Google Guaranteed | Google Screened |
| Ideal for home services businesses | Ideal for professional services |
| Includes a money-back guarantee | Focuses on building trust and credibility |
| Covers a broader range of services | More specialized and industry-specific |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are Background Checks?
Background checks are thorough investigations into a business’s and its owners’ history to ensure they meet Google’s high standards for trust and reliability. These checks include criminal records, business operations, and financial stability.
Who Carries Out the Background Checks?
Google partners with reputable third-party companies specializing in background verification to carry out these checks.
How Are Background Checks Carried Out?
Background checks involve verifying personal and business information, checking criminal records, validating licenses, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations. The process includes both automated checks and manual reviews.
Who Will Be Background Checked?
Owners and principals of the business, as well as key employees who interact with customers, are subject to background checks to ensure the integrity of the service provided.
I’ve Failed the Background Check, Now What?
If you fail the background check, Google will provide details on the areas of concern. You may have the opportunity to address these issues and reapply after a certain period.
What Are Business Entity Checks and Do They Apply to Me?
Business entity checks involve verifying the legitimacy and standing of the business itself. This includes confirming business registration, tax status, and operational compliance. These checks apply to all businesses seeking Google Screened or Google Guaranteed status.
What Are Insurance Checks?
Insurance checks verify that the business holds the necessary insurance coverage to protect both the business and its customers in case of accidents or damages. This is particularly relevant for home services businesses under the Google Guaranteed program.
What Are License Checks?
License checks ensure that the business and its professionals hold the required licenses to operate legally in their industry and region. This is crucial for maintaining high standards and compliance.
What Is Advanced Verification?
Advanced Verification is an additional layer of verification for businesses operating in highly sensitive or regulated industries. This process involves more in-depth checks and validations to ensure the utmost integrity and compliance with industry standards.
