Google has been rolling out new features to help users find trustworthy and reliable local services. One of these features is the “Google screened” label, which appears next to businesses that have been vetted and verified by Google.
This label is different from the “Google guaranteed” label, which is available only to certain types of businesses and requires them to provide a money-back guarantee.
If you’re a local business owner or a consumer looking for reliable services, it’s important to understand what the “Google screened” label means and how it can benefit you.
In this article, we’ll explore what does Google Screened mean, how it works, and what you need to do to get screened for your business.
What is Google Screened?
Google Screened is a feature introduced by Google in 2019 to provide users with a sense of security when selecting professionals or businesses from search results.
This feature is currently only available for certain types of businesses, such as lawyers, financial planners, and real estate agents, who must undergo a background check and verification process to become “Google Screened.”
Once a business is verified, it will display a green checkmark next to its name in search results, indicating to users that they have passed Google’s screening process.
This feature is important because it helps users feel confident in their choice of a professional or business, which can ultimately lead to more business for those who are screened.
What Does it Mean to Be Google Screened?
Being Google Screened means that your business has gone through a verification process by Google and has been deemed trustworthy and reliable. This feature is currently available for specific industries such as law firms, financial planners, and real estate agents.
Google Screened businesses are displayed at the very top of search results, above even the paid ads, giving them a significant advantage in terms of visibility and credibility.
To become Google Screened, businesses must undergo a rigorous screening process that includes background checks and license verification. This helps to ensure that only the most reputable and trustworthy businesses are displayed to potential customers.
How Does Google Screened Work?
Google Screened is a new feature offered by Google to help businesses stand out in search results. It is designed to help users find businesses that have been vetted and verified by Google.
To be eligible for Google Screened, a business must go through a rigorous background check and verification process. This includes verifying the business’s license and insurance, as well as conducting a background check on the business owner.
Once a business is approved for Google Screened, a badge will appear next to its name in search results, indicating that they are a trusted and verified business. This can help businesses attract more customers and increase their visibility in search results.
Who Can Use Google Screened?
1. Lawyers
Google Screened is a program that allows lawyers to advertise their services on Google and be verified by Google as a reputable and trustworthy legal service provider.
This program is available to lawyers who specialize in certain practice areas such as family law, immigration law, and criminal law.
2. Financial Planners
Financial planners who are Google Screened are verified by Google as trustworthy and credible financial service providers.
This program is available to financial planners who specialize in areas such as retirement planning, investment planning, and estate planning.
3. Real Estate Agents
Real estate agents who are Google Screened are verified by Google as reputable and trustworthy real estate service providers.
This program is available to real estate agents who specialize in buying, selling, and renting properties.
4. Home Service Providers
Home service providers such as plumbers, electricians, and HVAC technicians can also use Google Screened to advertise their services.
These service providers are verified by Google as reputable and trustworthy providers of home services.
5. Medical and Healthcare Professionals
Medical and healthcare professionals such as dentists, chiropractors, and physical therapists can also use Google Screened to advertise their services.
These professionals are verified by Google as reputable and trustworthy providers of medical and healthcare services.
6. Marketing and Advertising Agencies
Marketing and advertising agencies can also use Google Screened to advertise their services.
These agencies are verified by Google as reputable and trustworthy providers of marketing and advertising services.
7. Other Professional Service Providers
Other professional service providers such as IT consultants, business consultants, and accountants can also use Google Screened to advertise their services.
These providers are verified by Google as reputable and trustworthy providers of professional services.
Benefits of being Google Screened
1. Increased Credibility
Being Google Screened means that your business has undergone a thorough background check by Google.
This process includes verifying your business license and insurance, as well as ensuring that your business is in good standing with the Better Business Bureau.
This provides potential customers with a sense of security and trust, as they know that they are dealing with a reputable business.
2. Higher Visibility
Google Screened businesses receive a badge that appears prominently on their Google My Business profile and in search results.
This badge helps your business stand out from competitors and increases your visibility to potential customers who are searching for services in your area.
3. More Qualified Leads
Google Screened businesses are more likely to receive leads from customers who are serious about hiring a professional service provider.
This is because customers are more likely to trust and reach out to businesses that have been verified by Google.
4. Increased Conversion Rates
The Google Screened badge helps to build trust with potential customers, making them more likely to choose your business over competitors.
This can result in increased conversion rates and more business for your company.
5. Cost-Effective Advertising
Google Screened businesses receive access to a pay-per-lead advertising program that is designed to help businesses connect with potential customers who are actively searching for their services.
This program is cost-effective, as you only pay for leads that are relevant to your business.
6. Competitive Advantage
Being Google Screened provides your business with a competitive advantage over other businesses in your industry.
This can help you to stand out from the competition and attract more customers to your business.
7. Improved Customer Satisfaction
Google Screened businesses are held to a high standard of customer service and professionalism.
This ensures that customers receive a high-quality experience when working with your business, which can lead to improved customer satisfaction and positive reviews.
Ways to Get Google Screened
1. Meet the eligibility criteria
To become Google Screened, you must meet Google’s eligibility criteria, which include being licensed and insured in your area.
You must also pass a background check and have no history of legal or ethical violations.
2. Sign up for Local Services Ads
Local Services Ads is a platform created by Google to help businesses connect with potential customers in their local area.
Signing up for Local Services Ads is the first step towards becoming Google Screened.
3. Provide accurate business information
Make sure your business information is accurate and up-to-date. This includes your business name, address, phone number, and website. Also, make sure your hours of operation are correct.
4. Respond to customer inquiries promptly
When a potential customer contacts you through Local Services Ads, make sure you respond promptly. Responding quickly shows that you are reliable and professional.
5. Get positive reviews
Positive reviews are crucial for any business, but they are especially important for businesses looking to become Google Screened. Encourage your satisfied customers to leave a review on your Local Services Ads profile.
6. Maintain a high level of customer service
Providing excellent customer service is key to becoming Google Screened. Make sure you are always polite, professional, and responsive to your customers’ needs.
7. Keep your business information up-to-date
Make sure your business information is always up-to-date. This includes your hours of operation, contact information, and services offered. If any changes occur, update your Local Services Ads profile immediately.
Conclusion and final thoughts
In conclusion, Google Screened is a program launched by Google to help businesses establish trust with potential customers by verifying their qualifications and credentials.
This program allows businesses to display a “Google Screened” badge on their profiles and ads, which can increase their visibility and credibility in search results.
By undergoing a background check and meeting Google’s strict eligibility requirements, businesses can demonstrate their commitment to providing high-quality services to their customers.
Ultimately, Google screened is a valuable tool for businesses looking to stand out in a competitive market and earn the trust of potential customers.
