How to get started with Google’s Local Service Ads

If you’re considering running some Local Service Ads (LSA’s), the first thing you’ll need to do is check your business is eligible.

Google provide a tool so you can see which industries are currently able to advertise, and what it might cost per lead.

If your country and industry are listed on the dropdown of the aforementioned tool, you simply enter a figure into the number of leads field, and you’re taken through to the first page in the application process.

You’ll then be asked to create a Google account and you can sign in if you have one already.

You’ll then need to go through the process of creating your business profile. We suggest we go through this with you in real time as part of our account setup and optimisation service.

We’ll ask you some questions in advance so we’re able to complete the application in one session.

These questions will include include asking you about what you’d like to spend each week (which might be influenced by Google’s estimated cost per lead), which service areas you’d like to target and for which services you’d like your ad to appear. For example, for a plumber, you can choose from the services below:

• Bathroom installation
• Install shower
• Repair faucet
• Repair pipe
• Install hot water cylinder
• And so

To become a Google Guaranteed provider, and get the badge on your ad which is one of the main reasons we recommend businesses consider using LSAs, you may be required to submit licenses or registrations to prove you’re covered to provide the services you’re looking to advertise for. You’ll also need to ensure that the name and address on any documents matches with those on your profile.

And then you’ll need to add billing information of course.

Once your application is completed Google will review it, which usually takes 2-3 working days.

We’ll then ask you to add us to your account , giving us administrative access to help manage your account. We’ll also use this opportunity to review your profile and look to ensure any reviews you’ve earned on your Google My Business profile are also linked.

Google will notify you if your application was successful, and then your ads will start to run.

Find out more about our Local Service Ads Account Setup and Optimisation and Management services.