Google Guarantee is a certification that appears next to your business name in Google Search and Maps, signalling to potential customers that your business has been vetted by Google. It’s designed to help build trust and show that your business meets Google’s high standards for reliability and quality. If a customer is dissatisfied with the services you provide, Google offers a refund through its protection program, adding extra confidence for customers when they choose your business.
How to Get the Google Guarantee
Getting the Google Guarantee badge involves a few important steps. Here’s how you can earn it for your business:
Set Up and Verify Your Google Business Profile
First, you’ll need to create or claim your Google Business Profile. This is a crucial step because your business must have an active profile on Google to get the Google Guarantee badge. You can do this by signing up through Google My Business and making sure all the details—like your location, contact info, and website—are correct and up-to-date.
Sign Up for Local Services Ads (LSA)
The Google Guarantee badge is tied to Google’s Local Services Ads (LSA) platform. LSAs are a separate ad type from traditional Google Ads. Once your Google Business Profile is set up, you’ll need to sign up for LSAs, which allows your business to appear in local search results and on Google Maps.
Pass Google’s Background Checks
Google conducts a thorough screening process to verify your business. This could include checks on your business’s licensing, insurance, and background checks for your employees, depending on your industry. For example, a plumbing business may need to provide proof of proper insurance and licensure.
Maintain a High Standard of Service
Once you’re approved, Google reviews your performance regularly. Ensuring a high standard of service, keeping a positive reputation, and responding to customer reviews will help maintain your Google Guarantee status.
The Benefits of Google Guarantee
There are several advantages to having the Google Guarantee badge:
- Increased Trust and Credibility
Customers are more likely to trust your business when they see the Google Guarantee badge. This certification shows that your business is vetted by Google, which helps build trust with potential clients.
- Better Visibility
The Google Guarantee badge can improve your visibility in search results, especially on mobile devices. Customers will see your business stand out with the “Google Guaranteed” logo, which can increase click-through rates and drive more leads to your business.
- Protection for Customers
If a customer isn’t satisfied with your service, Google’s protection program offers a refund for the amount paid. This added level of security can make customers more confident in choosing your business.
How Google Guaranteed Ads Work
Google Guaranteed ads are displayed through Google’s Local Services Ads platform, which is different from traditional Google Ads. LSAs are a pay-per-lead service, meaning you pay when a customer contacts you directly through the ad (via phone call or message). This type of ad ensures that your business appears at the top of local search results for relevant queries, such as “plumber near me” or “best home cleaning services in [location].”
What sets Google Guaranteed ads apart from regular Google Ads is the badge. When your business is Google Guaranteed, your ad will display the “Google Guaranteed” logo, signalling that your business has passed Google’s background checks and is a reliable option for customers.
How Google Guarantee Differs from Google Ads
While Google Ads and Local Services Ads may seem similar, they are quite different in how they work:
- Google Ads
Google Ads (previously known as AdWords) are typically search ads that show up when users search for specific keywords. These ads operate on a pay-per-click (PPC) model, meaning you pay each time someone clicks on your ad. Google Ads can appear in various locations on Google’s search results page, and you bid on keywords to get placement.
- Local Services Ads (LSA)
Local Services Ads, on the other hand, are designed specifically for service-based businesses and show up at the top of search results, often above traditional Google Ads. LSAs work on a pay-per-lead basis, so you pay when someone contacts you directly through the ad, either by phone or message.
With Google Guaranteed, you also get a badge that signals trust, and Google provides the added benefit of a refund program if a customer is dissatisfied with your service.
Why Google Guarantee Matters
The Google Guarantee badge can significantly impact your business by enhancing your reputation, boosting customer trust, and improving your visibility in search results. For service-based businesses, it’s an excellent way to stand out from competitors and attract more qualified leads. Plus, with the added protection for your customers and the pay-per-lead model, it’s a risk-free way to grow your business.
