What is the difference between search ads and local service ads
Spokane businesses looking to advertise on Google usually come across two main advertising options which are Search Ads and Local Service Ads. Both can generate leads and both work but they work in very different ways.
Choosing the right option depends on your business type, your budget and how you want to get customers. Working with a local Spokane marketing agency can help you decide which option fits your goals best.
What Are Google Search Ads?
Search ads are exactly what you see and are displayed when anyone searches anything on google These ads are based on specific keywords that you "bid on" and you pay each time someone clicks your ad. The higher your bid the higher in search you appear.
Search ads work on a pay per click model which basically means you are charged every time someone clicks your ad. They are also based on keyword targeting which gives you control over what searches your ads show for.
What Are Local Service Ads?
Local Service Ads appear above Search Ads and are designed for local service businesses. Instead of paying per click you pay per lead or per action/conversion such as a phone call or message or form fill. Local service ads can be much more beneficial / profitable but can not be shown to as many people in multiple areas.
Local service ads work differently because you pay per lead instead of per click. They also include the Google Guaranteed badge which helps build trust with customers. However they are limited to certain industries and may not reach as many people as Search Ads.
Which One Works Better for Spokane Businesses?
For local Spokane businesses Local Service Ads can generate high quality leads especially for industries like plumbing roofing or local home services. However Search Ads offer more control/reach and can work better for competitive industries or businesses that want to target specific keywords or search terms.
In almost all cases the best strategy is using both together to maximize visibility and capture more leads, if your budget is small choose one you think would be most effective and invest more over time.
Cost and Competition Differences
Search Ads can become expensive depending on how competitive your keywords are. You are bidding against other businesses which can drive costs higher. For example the cost for the search term "spokane gutter repair" will be much cheaper compared to just "gutter repair". However the second term will get you many more leads
Local Service Ads often have more predictable pricing since you pay per lead/ per action but volume may be limited depending on your area and industry because there is just simply not enough of your target audience in your area or enough people searching the terms you are bidding on.
Understanding how both platforms work is important. You can also read our guide on Google Ads for Spokane businesses for more details on running effective campaigns.
Need Help Running Ads in Spokane?
If you are looking to run Google Ads or Local Service Ads we help Spokane businesses generate leads and improve ad performance through data driven strategies.