How to Optimize Local Services Ads: 8 Proven Tips for More Leads
- Published: April 10, 2025
oogle Local Services Ads (LSAs) can be a game-changer for service-based businesses. They appear at the very top of search results and help you connect with customers who are ready to book. But simply setting up your LSAs isn’t enough—optimization is key to staying competitive and converting more leads. Below, we share eight actionable tips based on industry best practices and real-world examples to help you get more out of your LSAs.
1. Get Google Guaranteed or Screened
One of the first steps in setting up LSAs is completing the verification process to earn a Google Guaranteed or Google Screened badge. These badges build instant trust and are a strong visual cue that your business has been vetted. Without them, your ad may appear less frequently or lower in rankings.
2. Expand Your Service Areas and Job Types
Google lets you list multiple services and service areas. Don’t limit yourself—include all relevant job categories and neighborhoods you cover. Broader coverage can increase your ad impressions and lead volume. Just make sure you’re ready to take on the areas you list!
3. Respond Quickly to Leads
Speed matters. Google tracks your response times and rewards businesses that reply fast. Use the LSA mobile app to stay on top of incoming calls and messages. Even missed calls can be followed up on to increase conversion.
4. Use the Google LSA App for Real-Time Management
The Google Local Services Ads app isn’t optional—it’s essential. It lets you reply instantly to leads, manage your bookings, and review your ad performance. Fast responses = higher rankings and more booked jobs.
5. Collect Verified Reviews
Reviews are a key ranking factor in LSAs. Focus on earning high-quality, verified reviews through your LSA dashboard. The more 5-star reviews you have, the better your visibility. Make it easy for happy customers to review you by sending the link right after a job.
6. Dispute Invalid Leads to Save Budget
Not every lead will be a good fit. If a contact doesn’t match your listed services or is clearly spam, dispute it. Google often credits you for bad leads, so don’t hesitate to file disputes in your dashboard. It helps you get the most value from your ad spend.
7. Keep Your Business Profile Current
An outdated LSA profile can cost you leads. Make sure your hours, services, service area, and business description are always accurate. Adding high-quality photos and keeping your bio polished can also improve conversions.
8. Monitor & Adjust Your Budget Strategically
Start with a budget that fits your goals, but check performance weekly. If you’re converting leads at a good rate, consider increasing your budget. Conversely, if you’re not seeing results, adjust your targeting or schedule to improve ROI.
Final Thoughts: LSAs Are Set It and Refine, Not Set It and Forget It
Getting started with Google Local Services Ads is easy—but succeeding takes consistent attention. By optimizing for speed, trust, and accuracy, you increase your chance of ranking at the top and closing more leads.
LSAs work best when you treat them like a living part of your marketing strategy—review, refine, and repeat.