There are two different types of badges for local service listings: Google Guarantee and Google Screen. Both programs have features and criteria, but which is better suited for your clients? This article outlines the differences between the two badges and helps you decide which one is better.
What is Google Screen?
Google screen is a program that allows businesses to list their business on Google Maps with only basic info such as name, address, phone number, and website. The listing will be searchable by users who visit Google Maps.
If someone searches for a business using keywords associated with that business, they will see the business’s listing in the results. The benefits of this type of listing include the following:
- It is free to apply for
- You can add photos, videos, or other media
- Your listing is searchable
- You can choose whether or not to display your business hours
How Does a Company Get the Google Screened Badge?
The screening begins when you sign up for Google Guaranteed, a paid search service. Like Google, a business must go through a similar screening process before they’re allowed to join the program.
The state checks all business aspects before issuing a business license. Depending on the type of business, the owner may go through a background check.
What is Google Guarantee?
Google guarantee is a program that requires more information than Google Screens. It is also known as the verified location because it verifies that the business is located at the address provided.
If someone searches for a business with the same name, address, and phone number, they will see the verified business listing instead of the unverified listing. The benefits of having a verified listing include the following:
- You must provide additional information about your business (such as opening hours)
- Your listing cannot be added without verification
- Your listing cannot be removed from Google Maps
How Does a Company Receive the Google Guaranteed Badge?
A company receives the Google guaranteed badge when they meet certain criteria. These criteria include:
- Having at least ten reviews
- Being verified through Google My Business
- Having been verified by Google within the past year
- Having no negative feedback
How Important are Google Screened and Google Guaranteed?
Both are very important in terms of SEO. Many companies use both to increase their visibility on Google Maps. Thousands of businesses every day use Google screens. They’re free to use, and they’re easy to set up.
On the other hand, Google guarantee is used by millions of businesses around the world. It costs money to use, but it offers much more flexibility.
What are the Differences Between Google Screened and Google Guaranteed?
To understand how these two programs differ, take a look at what each offer.
- Google Screens allow businesses to list themselves on Google Maps with minimal information. Businesses can use Google maps to show their physical location and contact details, but they don’t have to provide any additional information.
- Google Guaranteed requires businesses to provide detailed information about their business. In addition to providing an address, businesses must also provide opening hours, directions, and other relevant information.
- Google Screens are free to apply for, while Google Guaranteed costs $25 annually. Businesses can add photos, videos, or other media to their Google screens. However, they cannot add anything else to their Google-guaranteed listings.
- Google Screens are searchable by anyone who visits Google Maps. However, Google-Guaranteed listings are only available to those who search for them.
- Google Screens are limited to one page. On the other hand, Google Guarantees to let businesses create multiple pages.
- Google Screens are only available to local businesses. Google Guarantees are open to both local and non-local businesses.
- Google Screens are temporary. Once you remove your listing, it disappears from Google Maps. On the other hand, Google Guarantees stay on Google Maps even after you remove your listing.
- Google does not index Google Screens. On the other hand, Google Guaranteed is indexed by Google, so they appear higher in search engine rankings.
Which One is Better? Google Screened vs Google Guaranteed
It depends on what you’re looking for. If you want a quick fix to get your business listed on Google Maps, Google screens are perfect. They’re free to apply for and easy to set up. However, once you’ve applied for a screen, you won’t be able to change anything about it.
If you’re looking for a long-term and permanent solution, then Google guaranteed is best. It’s more expensive than Google screens, but it gives you access to more features.
You’ll be able to edit your listing as often as you like. You can also create multiple pages and include images, videos, and other media.
The bottom line is this: both Google screens and Google guaranteed are great tools for getting your business noticed online. The choice boils down to whether you need something that will last or something that will only stay for a while.
How Do You Decide?
In making the right decision, it’s best to consider the following factors:
Do you need a permanent presence on Google Maps?
If you’re looking to build a brand, Google guaranteed is probably the way to go.
You can update your listing whenever you want without worrying about losing your spot. It means you can make necessary changes to your business as frequently as you’d like.
Are you willing to pay extra money?
If you aim to keep your listing active longer than just a few months, then Google Guaranteed may be worth the cost. However, if you’re just looking for a short-term fix, Google screens may be enough. They’re free to apply for and easy to set up.
What kind of business are you running?
If you run a small business with a little advertising budget, then Google screens might be all you need. If you have a larger budget, though, Google guaranteed may work better for you.
If you need help setting up Google Guaranteed or have your business Google Screened, BrandLume can do it for you.
Final Thoughts
Both Google Screens and Google Guaranteed offer an effective way to get your business seen by potential customers. Ultimately, the right choice depends on how much time and effort you’re willing to put into your business.
If you don’t have the time and resources to invest in creating a long-lasting presence on Google Maps, then Google screens are a good option.
On the flip side, if you don’t mind spending time and resources building a strong online reputation, then Google guaranteed is the way to go.
