Google ad services can be complicated and expensive to set up. You can pay Google, watch YouTube videos, and spend hours figuring out how to do it yourself, or an agency to help you pay to set up your Google AdWords account and manage it for you. In all scenarios, the result is the same, it’s expensive to run Google Ads.  

Google has recently introduced a new option designed specifically for service businesses targeting local customers. The best part is they have made this type of advertising not just affordable but also easy to manage. How exciting is that??!! 

Google Local Services 

Google Local Service ads work closely with your Google Business Profile page. The ad displays a quick look at the business review ratings. Only 3 are shown on the 1st page and they are on the same line. There is no need to come up with a headline, or description. Google grabs this from your Business Profile page. Currently, there are only two calls to action available for the potential customer. Click to call or click to send a message. These clicks are how Google charges. It really is a great value because you are being charged for better leads. 

Keeping it Simple 

You may notice Google’s Local Service ads show the star ratings without the number of reviews in the ad view. Each ad receives the same amount of space in length and width. When it comes to Local Service Ads, Google is keeping it simple and leaving it up to each potential customer to choose what motivates their follow up action.  

For business owners used to more opportunity to create a relationship, this type of advertising may not be a good fit. There is no link to a landing for focused information or a designated URL with a contact page. It doesn’t allow the opportunity to embed a contact form that leads to a nurturing campaign email list.  

It’s a plain Jane sort of Ad that gives the potential customer the best local options in the area. Also great for businesses with or without a website and with a handful of great Google reviews and those with many great Google reviews. 

The Pros and Cons 

The pros easy to set up good for businesses with a smaller advertising budget. Best for businesses with fewer competitors in a localized area.  

The cons to running this type of ad is no traffic is being sent to your website. There does not appear to be any additional way to measure the effectiveness of the ad other than the data provided by Google.  

Click here to set up your Google Local Services Ads. Follow the prompts that link your email to your Google Business Profile. There is a short waiting period while Google performs a background check. Your new Local Service Ads could be up and running within a few short weeks.  

At Riza Marketing we help small business owners and entrepreneurs develop their online marketing strategies. Contact us for a strategy session or an evaluation of your current strategy.