The Dish on Google Screened & What it Means for Attorneys

Consumers want two things: convenience and excellent service. And while search engines, smartphones, and click-to-call technology have taken care of the convenience part, finding a business that also delivers a great experience is much trickier.

Fortunately, search engines like Google are getting the hint. Algorithms are beginning to consider the context of a customer’s query and the desire for a trusted, high-quality service—displaying not only the nearest results but ratings for those businesses.

Introducing Google Screened

Google Screened is a program designed to help professional service firms build their reputation online.

Businesses must complete multiple background checks and maintain a high response rate to qualify. Once eligible, the business displays at the top of search results with their rating.

How does it work?

To participate in the program, advertisers must first pass Google’s qualification process to earn their Google Screened badge.

Potential clients who search for legal services are shown three (two on mobile) verified listings of qualified providers at the top of the search engine results page.

To contact the verified business, the user calls a call tracking number specific to the Google Local Service ad, which connects the client to the company. 

How does Google rank screened businesses?

This verified directory rewards businesses based on their quality of service and reliability. Firms that demonstrate high responsiveness and receive many positive customer reviews are ranked higher and show more frequently at the top of search results. 

You may be asking, what do you mean by high responsiveness? The goal of the Google Screened program is to encourage more phone calls and, therefore, more business. If those phone calls go unanswered, however, Google is going to notice. Remember, customers love convenience AND excellent service, so ensuring a friendly, professional voice answers every call is key to keeping your Google Screened profile high in search results.

How can I get started?

This year, Google Screened was introduced in four US cities: Atlanta, Houston, Austin, and San Diego for financial planners, immigration lawyers, and estate lawyers. Google has recently announced plans to expand the Google Screened program to professional services nationwide. 

Fortunately, Ruby has partnered with SearchKings to help attorneys prepare for the upcoming rollout. A Google Premier Provider, SearchKings ensures expedited approval through their application process, assists with onboarding, and provides additional metrics so you can stay on top of your call metrics.

To learn more, visit SearchKings.com/ruby/ and mention you are a Ruby customer to access their exclusive offer. Not a Ruby customer? We can help you there! Click the ‘Get Started’ button in the top navigation bar or give us a call at 844-311-7829.

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