If you’re a local business owner, you know how important it is to rank well on Google and how important it is to get Google screened.
This certification program can help establish trust with potential customers and give you an edge over your competitors.
So, what exactly is Google Screened?
It’s a program that certifies local businesses in certain industries, such as law, financial planning, real estate, child care, auto care, beauty, and more.
To become Google Screened, businesses must pass a background check and meet other eligibility criteria.
Once certified, businesses can display the Google Screened badge on their Google My Business profile and Local Services Ads, which can help them stand out in search results and attract more customers.
If you’re interested in becoming Google Screened, there are a few steps you’ll need to take.
First, make sure your business meets the eligibility criteria for your industry.
Then, complete the background check and provide any additional documentation required by Google.
Finally, once you’ve been approved, you can start displaying the Google Screened badge on your profile and ads.
In this article, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide to help you become Google Screened and take your local business to the next level.
How To Get Google Screened
If you’re a service provider, getting Google Screened can help you stand out to potential customers.
Here’s how to get started:
Creating A Google My Business Account
Before you can apply for Google Screened, you’ll need to create a Google My Business account.
This will allow you to manage your business information across Google, including on Google Maps and Search.
Make sure to fill out your profile completely with accurate information about your business, including your hours, services, and contact information.
Applying For Google Screened
Once you’ve created your Google My Business account, you can apply for Google Screened.
To do this, you’ll need to sign up for Local Services Ads and complete the screening and verification process.
The requirements for this process vary depending on your business category and location, but generally include passing license and insurance checks, as well as background checks if required.
Passing The Screening Process
To pass the screening process and earn the Google Screened badge, you’ll need to meet all the requirements set by Google.
This may include providing proof of licenses and insurance, passing background checks, and completing any required training.
Once you’ve passed the screening process, your business will be listed with the Google Screened badge, indicating to potential customers that you’ve been vetted by Google and are a trustworthy service provider.
Remember, getting Google Screened is just the first step in standing out to potential customers.
Make sure to provide high-quality service and maintain a positive reputation to continue attracting new business through Local Services Ads.
Eligibility For Google Screened
To become Google Screened, you must meet certain eligibility requirements.
Here are the key factors that determine your eligibility:
Business Categories
Google Screened is currently available for certain professional services, including law, financial planning, real estate, photography, and more.
Check Google’s official site to see if your business qualifies.
License Verification
Businesses with the Google Screened badge have passed license checks (where licenses are required).
Ensure you satisfy all the licensing prerequisites for your profession.
Background Checks
Some businesses are also required to pass background checks.
Be prepared for background checks if required.
Insurance Verification
Businesses must show proof of insurance. Ensure that you have the necessary insurance and license information to navigate the Google screening process successfully.
Remember that Google Screened is a significant achievement, and it can help build trust with consumers from your advertisement with Google.
If you meet the eligibility requirements, take the initiative to get your business Google Screened, and you could be eligible to become Google Guaranteed.
Google Guaranteed businesses have a different checkmark and their services are financially backed by Google (up to $2,000).
Maintaining Your Google Screened Status
Once you’ve passed the Google Screening and verification process and earned your Google Screened badge, it’s important to maintain your status to continue appearing in Local Services Ads.
Here are a few tips to help you maintain your Google Screened status:
- Keep your license and insurance up to date: As a Google Screened service provider, you’ve already passed license and insurance checks.
- However, it’s important to keep these documents up to date to avoid any lapses in coverage or licensing issues.
- Respond to customer inquiries promptly: One of the key factors that Google considers when ranking service providers in Local Services Ads is responsiveness to customer inquiries.
- Make sure to respond to inquiries as quickly as possible to show that you’re committed to providing excellent customer service.
- Maintain a high level of customer satisfaction: Your customer reviews play a big role in determining your ranking in Local Services Ads.
- Encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews, and make sure to address any negative feedback promptly to show that you’re committed to addressing customer concerns.
- Stay up to date with industry best practices: As a service provider, it’s important to stay up to date with the latest industry trends and best practices.
- This can help you provide better service to your customers and stay competitive in your market.
By following these tips, you can help maintain your Google Screened status and continue to appear in Local Services Ads.
Key Takeaways
If you want to get the Google Screened badge, there are several eligibility criteria you need to meet.
- These include passing a background check, providing evidence of registration, insurance, and licenses, and having at least one Google review on your Google business profile.
- Getting Google Screened can help establish trust with your local advertisements and improve your visibility on Google SERPs.
- The first five results on Google SERPs account for a significant portion of click-through rates, so cracking one of those highly sought-after top five positions can be difficult without the Google Screened badge.
- To get Google Screened, you need to undergo a rigorous background check and verification process that involves checking your business-level background, business-owner background, and each professional in the business.
- Once you’ve passed the background check, you’ll need to provide evidence of your registration, insurance, and licenses to complete the process.
Overall, getting Google Screened can help you compete locally in 2023 and beyond, improve your visibility on Google SERPs, and establish trust with potential customers.