Most of us have experienced constantly changing algorithms and updates to Google products. Local Services Ads (LSA), one of Google’s paid advertising products, was affected by recent changes as of September 2023.
Fewer Results Shown
As explained in a prior blog comparing the differences between Google’s PPC and LSA products, the top three ranked LSAs are displayed at the very top of Google’s search results, and the exact position of your LSA is driven by ranking factors such as proximity to the primary location, quantity, and quality of reviews. So what has changed?
On desktop view:
Previously on desktop, three LSAs were presented in a horizontal layout, but now Google showcases only two LSAs in a vertical format, as shown in the screenshot below.
As a consequence of this change, businesses aiming for top placement in the search results now have only two spots to compete for, rather than three. When you click on “more carpet cleaners”, the top 20 ranked LSA ads are shown.
On mobile view:
In contrast to the desktop view, on the mobile view, three LSAs are still being showcased, as seen in the screenshot below, allowing three top spots to compete for first-page placement.
However, when clicking “show more” only six LSAs additional ads are displayed on the mobile view, rather than 20 on the desktop view. However, more options are seen on the mobile view. Users are given the option to click on “50+ carpet cleaners nearby”.
Rotating Through Contractors
The second noteworthy change is that Google appears to be circulating the top 20 LSAs in the results, instead of solely ranking the two (or three) highest-quality LSAs as before. As a result, businesses that consistently held top positions are now likely experiencing a decrease in their lead volume. Conversely, those businesses that didn’t occupy the top three positions and didn’t receive a steady stream of leads may observe an improvement in their lead volume.
Ranking Matters More Than Ever
So given this change, where do the ranking factors come into play? As mentioned, Google seems to be circulating the top 20 LSAs on desktops. However, if there are more businesses running LSAs in your area, then Google is only circulating the top 20 ranked LSAs. It appears to us that those ranked below 20 don’t have the opportunity for a spot in the top 2 positions at all.
Whether or not our ranking theory applies to mobile view is currently unclear. However, one unmistakable fact is that search results for the same query, occurring simultaneously, differ between desktop and mobile views, especially since three LSAs are showcased rather than just two. This disparity enables mobile users, and therefore mobile advertisers, a wider array of businesses to access leads, broadening their reach and potential.
The changing of the season is not only a reminder to swap out your wardrobe but also an opportunity to shift your business focus if you offer seasonal services. As summer turns to autumn and winter looms on the horizon, HVAC companies need to adapt to the changing needs of their customers. This transition from A/C to heating service leads is not only a smart business move but also a way to provide comprehensive solutions to their customers. This often involves flipping from air conditioning service leads to heating service leads.
Understanding the Seasonal Shift
The seasonal Pivot in the HVAC industry is a natural transition that occurs twice a year: From summer to fall and winter to spring. During the summer, air conditioning systems are in high demand as homeowners seek relief from the sweltering heat. However, as temperatures drop, the demand for heating services rises. This shift is not just about changing services offered; it also involves adjusting marketing strategies and operational procedures.
Why the Pivot Matters
Meeting Customer Needs: The primary reason HVAC companies make this seasonal pivot is to meet the changing needs of their customers. In colder months, homeowners rely on their heating systems to stay warm and comfortable, making heating services essential. By offering heating system maintenance, repairs, and installation, HVAC companies ensure that their clients are ready for winter.
Maximizing Revenue: For HVAC companies, diversifying services throughout the year helps to maintain a steady stream of revenue. By offering heating services in the colder months, they can offset the decrease in demand for air conditioning services. This balance can help keep their business financially stable year-round.
Building Customer Loyalty: Consistently providing services that meet customer needs fosters trust and loyalty. When HVAC companies offer heating services during the colder months, they demonstrate their commitment to keeping customers comfortable throughout the year.
How HVAC Companies Make the Pivot
Companies need to shift their marketing and advertising focus from cooling to heating services and create a seasonal promotion to attract customers looking for heating solutions. Running targeted promotions for appropriate services show potential customers that they are ready to serve during the upcoming season.
Leveraging Google ADs And LSA for Rapid HVAC Leads in Seasonal Transitions
For businesses, especially those in seasonal industries like HVAC, adapting to changing consumer demands is crucial. HVAC Companies, in particular, face the challenges of transitioning from cooling to heating services as the seasons change. While maintaining a consistent organic online presence is essential, it’s essential to understand why organic rankings may not provide immediate results during these transitions and how Google Ads and Google Local Services (LSA) can be potent tools for quickly picking up leads.
Organic Ranking: Slow response to content changes
Organic rankings on search engines like Google are highly valuable for long-term success. However, they are not ideal for quick responses to content changes. Here’s why:
Algorithmic updates: Search engines constantly update their algorithms. Even if you optimize your website for heating services during the fall, it may take time for search engines to recognize and rank these changes effectively.
Crawling and Indexing: Search engines crawl and index web pages periodically. This means that any new content or changes on your site may not be immediately recognized by search engines, further delaying your organic ranking.
Competitive Landscape: Organic rankings are influenced by factors like competition and backlinks. It can be challenging to outperform established competitors in a short timeframe, especially during seasonal transitions.
Google Ads and LSA: Quick Adaptation for Leads:
Google AD Campaigns and Google LSA offer several advantages for HVAC companies looking to capture leads during seasonal transitions:
Immediate Visibility: With Google Ads and LSA, your HVAC business can quickly appear at the top of search results, ensuring that potential customers see your services as soon as they search for heating solutions.
Targeted Campaigns: These advertising platforms allow you to target specific keywords and demographics, ensuring your ads reach the right audience actively seeking heating services.
Budget Control: You can set monthly budgets on Google Ads, which gives you control over your advertising spending. LSA charges you per lead, allowing for cost-effective lead generation.
Adaptability: Google Ads and LSA campaigns can be adjusted in real time. As seasons change, you can easily switch your focus from cooling to heating services and update Ads creatives accordingly.
In the HVAC industry, the transition from cooling and heating services can be challenging. Google Ads and Google LSA campaigns offer efficient ways to capture leads quickly during these seasonal changes. While organic rankings are essential for long-term success, they may not provide the immediate results needed during transitions. By using paid advertising platforms strategically and staying agile in their campaigns, HVAC companies can effectively maximize leads and minimize costs during seasonal shifts. Contact 99 Calls Ads and LSA specialists today to gather more information on how your company can benefit from these services. (800)-717-4669.
Reasons To Make the Move
The Seasonal pivot from air conditioning to heating service leads is a strategic maneuver for HVAC service companies that serves multiple purposes. This transition enables them to better serve their customers, optimize their revenue systems, and foster customer loyalty. By adapting their services, marketing strategies, and operations, these companies ensure they are always prepared to keep homes comfortable, whether it’s dealing with scorching summer or chilly winter. Ultimately, this seasonal pivot proves to be highly beneficial for the HVAC business in several ways
Overall, embracing the transition from A/C to heating services not only benefits the company but also provides a valuable service to its customers. It’s a win-win situation that allows HVAC businesses to thrive year-round while keeping homes and businesses comfortable in all seasons.
Over the last several years, the cost of running Google Ads has been on a steady increase which has caused businesses to wonder if utilizing them as part of their marketing strategy is still worth it. Rather than dismissing PPC campaigns outright due to higher costs, consider them as part of an integrated strategy that includes content marketing, social media engagement, and search engine optimization (SEO). By diversifying your approach, you can mitigate the impact of rising pay-per-click costs while still capitalizing on its benefits.
The Rise of Cost-Per-Click (CPC): Understanding the Cause
Over the past several years, the cost of running pay-per-click Google Ads has been on an upward trajectory. The primary cause behind this increase is the heightened competition among advertisers bidding for the limited ad space available. As more businesses recognize the potential of online advertising, the demand for ad space increases, leading to bidding wars and elevated bid prices and the bidding wars intensify. Consequently, the cost per click rises for all participants in the auction. This competition is fueled by the limited space available for ads and the desire to capture the attention of potential customers.
Advertisers must navigate this landscape strategically, focusing on factors like keyword relevance, ad quality, and overall campaign efficiency to ensure that they can secure meaningful results despite inflation.
Navigating High Advertising Costs
While the ever-rising cost-per-click might seem discouraging, there are effective strategies businesses can employ to navigate these challenges while continuing to reap the benefits of PPC campaigns:
Conversion Rates: Regardless of the rising click costs, the ultimate goal of any PPC campaign remains unchanged: generating conversions. When the cost of acquiring a lead or sale has increased, monitoring and optimizing your conversion rates is paramount.
Keyword Relevance: Ensure that the keywords within your campaign align closely with the intent of your target audience. This not only boosts the effectiveness of your ads but also contributes to a higher Quality Score, which can help keep your cost-per-click in check.
Quality Scores: Keyword quality score consists of 3 factors: expected click-through rate, landing page experience, and ad relevance. By optimizing these elements, you can improve your Quality Score, which can lead to a lower cost-per-click.
Consider Higher Budgets: While it might sound counterintuitive, allocating a larger budget to your campaigns could prove beneficial. With increased click costs, having a budget that accommodates these costs on a daily basis can prevent your campaigns from stalling due to budget constraints.
Utilize Local Service Ads (LSA): When users see you multiple times in search results, they become more familiar with your business and are more likely to interact. Multiple appearances on the first page of search results can convey a sense of authority and trustworthiness to users.
Inflation-Proofing Your PPC Strategy
While the inflation within pay-per-click (PPC) campaigns presents a challenge, it’s important to remember that digital advertising remains an essential tool for reaching your target audience. By skillfully managing your campaigns, focusing on conversion rates, optimizing keyword relevance and quality scores, and utilizing local service ads and search engine optimization, you can weather the storm of rising costs and continue to drive meaningful results for your business.
How Lead Generation has Expanded a NYC Painting Business
One of the many industries we service here at 99 Calls is painting. Currently, we service nearly 150 painters around the country. Everywhere from Seattle to Los Angeles to Miami. Each of these contractors brings with them their own story, unique style, and particular needs in regard to their business. Consumers have been cutting expenses, and producing leads for services such as painting is more difficult than ever.
NYCA Contractors specializes in cabinet refinishing projects with over 11 years in the industry. Family-owned and operated, since 2009. They are proud experts in this field, offering high-quality finishes and transforming your kitchen to a brand-new look. High-end cabinet refinishing with HVLP Sprayers makes the look unique and the quality of the final product long-lasting. They have now expanded to serve large portions of New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, and Philadelphia.
Meet Albano Sheme, Owner Operator of NYCA Contractors
We interviewed Albano Sheme, owner of NYCA Contractors to learn more about his business and his experience with 99 Calls. Albano has a background in painting and was raised around the family painting business. Eventually, he chose to venture out on his own. He wanted to be able to apply his skills and implement his own ideas. Painting at a high level was nothing new to Albano, but owning and operating a company would of course prove to be a challenge.
Initially facing high operating costs. It was tough, but Albano was “100% dedicated to the work”, and states that was the key to his success. By channeling the experience he gained from his family and mentor of 15 years, his personal drive influenced the growth of his business. NYCA has now grown larger than he initially imagined.
We asked him, “What have you learned from being a business owner?”. Albano replied, “Like every other entrepreneur, I am sure the answer is the same. We have bad days and good days. We just have to keep going no matter what.”. He credited 99 Calls as being a huge support for his business and we are proud to be partners with him and his team.
NYCA and 99 Calls Partnership
NYCA originally came to us at the beginning of 2020. Just before the worldwide pandemic. At that time they were interested in producing high-quality exclusive leads. They were fed up with paying high costs for leads that were shared with four or five different painting contractors. They also needed a true team of specialists to promote their unique style of product.
They now have 6 locations spanning across four states. It takes a lot of work and various approaches across these markets to produce results. However, the primary revenue driver for NYCA is leads produced from PPC Ads. With online competition growing and the organic section of Google search pages shrinking, effective Ads are a key component of any successful painting business.
Lead Generation Results
When it comes to pay-per-click Google ads, the industry standard conversion rate sits around only 5%, but the certified ads professionals at 99 Calls were able to produce an average of 20% conversion rates across all NYCA accounts. This high conversion rate allowed us to generate a high volume of cabinet leads.
Since starting with us NYCA in New York and New Jersey has produced over 1225 leads from Google Ads and 637 leads from SEO. Making it one of the most successful advertising campaigns in the Tri-State area for cabinet painting and refinishing. In addition to this, we have produced an additional 155 SEO exclusive leads in other parts of New York and New Jersey in the last 3 years.
After seeing the success of its NYC location, NYCA decided to start an additional site in Philadelphia in the fall of 2022. Then another additional site to start the summer of 2023 in Connecticut. This does not include the various expansions in both New Jersey and New York.
Here is just a small sample of what our team has been able to accomplish in NYC and Northern New Jersey. Dating all the way back to the summer of 2020 the team has consistently produced more and more leads. Now 30-40 exclusive cabinet leads per month is the norm. Even reaching high spots of success of around 50 leads or more in a single month.
Rising Costs & Business Challenges
The most important thing for a growing company with a large team is the volume of leads. One of the biggest challenges has been click cost, some of these markets have clicks for cabinet painting services that can be as high as $20 each. There is little margin for error if an ad converts at a low rate or leads are missed. Then lead costs can become unreasonable, especially when we are trying to produce such effective results at scale.
One thing that has helped us offset rising click costs, is producing a large steady flow of exclusive SEO leads. These make all the difference in the ROI NYCA receives from their advertising. Now in each market we enter we are looking to establish a strong and robust online presence. We offer some of the most competitive pricing in the industry when it comes to SEO.
The Future of NYCA
The team recently had a consultation with Albano to discuss his success to this point and the plan for the future. NYCA plans to continue to expand around the country. We have looked at markets such as Florida, or Texas for future locations. Albano is closing a high percentage of the leads he receives. We plan on growing NYCA’s online presence in the newest markets we have entered. While continuing to expand and maintain success in New York and New Jersey. The team at 99 calls will continue to put our full effort into getting as many leads as possible at the lowest cost per lead.
If you have a painting or interior remodeling business and are looking for a high volume of qualified, exclusive leads, Google Ads are a great way to do so. If you’re not 100% confident in your Google Ads ability, consider partnering with a team of certified Google Ad professionals like 99 Calls.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is being used more frequently across all types of businesses nationwide in a variety of ways. In this blog, we’ll describe how AI can offer numerous benefits to large and small businesses, helping them improve efficiency, reduce costs, enhance customer experiences, and make more informed decisions through a variety of tools.
Here are a few of the ways in which AI can assist small businesses:
Chatbots: Many websites that offer services or goods have recently started using AI powered chatbots to provide 24/7 customer support, answer basic, frequently asked questions, and handle routine inquiries, saving time and resources. An example is our 99 Calls’ company website, https://99calls. In the bottom right corner of the website, you’ll see this:
In this example, you’re prompted to answer a few questions, to help us determine how best to help. Other businesses like to manage a live chatbot that serves as an interactive bot that’ll answer the most frequently asked questions.
Data Analysis: AI powered tools such as Statistical Analysis Systems (SAS) can analyze previously collected data to predict future trends, helping businesses make informed decisions about inventory, sales, and marketing strategies. An example of this would be when a retail company implements AI to predict future sales trends based on historical data on sales, customer behavior, pricing, and marketing campaigns. The AI algorithms forecast upcoming sales patterns for specific products and time periods. This helps the company optimize inventory, plan marketing strategies, and make data-driven decisions to increase sales and profitability.
Workflow Automation: Small businesses can use AI to automate repetitive tasks such as data entry, invoicing, sending routine emails, and appointment scheduling, freeing up employees to focus on more strategic work. An example of this is the customer onboarding process. When a business signs a customer up for a service, AI-powered software can be set to automatically generate and send personalized welcome emails or emails laying out the next steps. This automation streamlines the onboarding process, reducing manual administrative tasks, and ensuring a consistent and efficient experience for new clients.
Marketing | Advertising | Search Engine Optimization (SEO): AI tools can help small businesses in marketing and SEO through keyword analysis, performance tracking, and content recommendations. Through tools like Google Search Console and Google Analytics, AI can analyze large amounts of data to identify relevant keywords for your industry, recommend content topics based on the keyword, and generate content based on the target keywords. AI can also analyze the existing content to ensure keywords are being used appropriately and effectively for SEO purposes. From Google Search Console, AI can process data to track impressions, clicks, and click-through rates for specific keywords or pages. From Google Analytics, AI can be used to identify patterns and trends to determine which pages are performing well.
Content Generation: Through Open AI-powered tools, content such as Google and Facebook Ad campaigns, social media posts, blogs, and email marketing, and logo design can be easily created, or at least initiated, saving time and maintaining a consistent online presence to enhance your SEO.
ChatGPT / Bard / Jasper / Caktus AI
These four tools are designed to help with generating human-like content, ChatGPT being the most prevalent, and advanced because of its conversational manner. You can learn more about how it can be in SEO from this blog previously written, https://blog.99calls.com/2023/02/07/how-chatgpt-can-enhance-your-seo/
DALL-E
This tool specializes in generating images from textual descriptions. For example, it can be used to create a logo for a business based on a description provided by the user.
Lead Vetting: AI-powered Natural Language Processing (NLP) software, can be used to screen all the qualified leads from various sources, reducing the mundane task of manually screening all the leads.
E-commerce Optimization: AI-driven recommendation systems can boost e-commerce sales by suggesting relevant products to customers. An example of this would be an online retailer such as Amazon. The AI system analyzes customer browsing and purchase history, as well as real-time data on website traffic and user behavior. Using this information, it generates personalized product recommendations for each visitor, such as suggesting clothing items that complement their recent purchases or browsing history. Additionally, the AI system dynamically adjusts pricing based on factors like demand, competitor pricing, and inventory levels to maximize sales and profits. This AI-driven e-commerce optimization strategy enhances the shopping experience, increases customer engagement, and ultimately boosts sales revenue for the online store.
Human Resources / Recruitment: AI tools such as Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) can help screen and shortlist job applicants, saving time in the hiring process. When job applications are submitted, the AI tool automatically scans and evaluates resumes, identifying candidates whose qualifications closely match the job requirements. It then conducts initial candidate screenings through video interviews, assessing factors like communication skills and cultural fit. This AI-driven recruitment process significantly reduces the time and effort required for initial candidate screening, allowing HR teams to focus on interviewing and selecting the best-fit candidates.
While AI can offer numerous advantages to businesses, it’s important to carefully assess your business’s specific needs and capabilities before implementing AI solutions. Start with small, manageable projects, and gradually expand your AI usage as you become more comfortable with the technology and its impact on your business operations.
Discounts and promotions are an effective way to attract new customers and encourage existing customers to hire you again. By offering customers special discounts, it helps your business stand out from the competition and increase visibility in search engine results. Promotions provide an incentive for customers to hire your particular business, which helps to increase revenue.
Benefits of Offering Promotions and Special Deals
When customers are online searching for a service they need and come across a business that is offering it at a discounted price, it helps create a sense of urgency and excitement. Customers are more likely to take action when they know they are getting a great deal. What’s more, by running promotions, your business can also gain valuable insights into customer preferences and behaviors. Businesses have a great opportunity to reward loyal customers and generate positive word-of-mouth by providing these incentives to their customers.
Some benefits of running a successful promotion include:
Increased Customer Engagement
Increased Brand Awareness
Increased Sales
Improved Customer Loyalty
Increased Profits
Improved Customer Service
Increased Online Traffic
Improved Performance
Improved Business Image
Increased Customer Satisfaction
Types of Promotions You Can Offer
Businesses can use a variety of different types of promotions to reach their target audience. Each type of promotion has its own advantages and can be used to reach different types of customers.
Discounts: Offering discounts on products and services is one of the most common types of promotions businesses can offer. Discounts can be applied to a single item, a bundle of items, or even the entire purchase.
Coupons: Coupons are a great way to entice customers to make a purchase. They can be distributed through online or print channels, and customers can redeem them for discounts.
Freebies: Offering free samples, trials, or gifts can be a great way to attract new customers and reward loyal ones.
Contests and Giveaways: Contests and giveaways can be a great way to engage customers and promote your brand. Customers can enter to win prizes or discounts, and the winners can be chosen randomly or based on criteria set by the business.
Loyalty Programs: Loyalty programs reward customers for their continued patronage. Customers can earn points or rewards for purchases, which can then be redeemed for discounts or other offers.
Referral Programs: Referral programs are a great way to reward customers for referring new customers to your business. Customers can be rewarded with discounts or other offers for referring friends and family.
Social Media Promotions: Social media is a great way to promote your business and engage customers. Businesses can offer discounts, contests, and other promotions through social media channels to attract new customers and reward existing ones.
Strategies for Running Promotions
When planning a promotion, it’s important to consider your target audience, your budget, and your desired outcome. Businesses should also consider the type of promotion that will be most effective for their target audience. For example, discounts may be more effective for attracting new customers, while a “buy one get one free” offer may be more effective for encouraging existing customers to hire you again for more.
Some effective strategies to consider when running promotions include:
Establish clear goals for your promotion before you begin. Consider what you want to achieve, such as increasing sales, driving more website traffic, or expanding your customer base.
Choose the right platform for your promotion. For example, Google Ads is a great choice for targeting a wide range of audiences. Posting on a social media platform can be beneficial if you have a large following.
Create an ad that will capture your audience’s attention. Focus on a strong headline, compelling visuals, and an offer that will entice your target market.
Optimize your campaign for the best results. Use A/B testing to determine which ad copy and visuals work best, and adjust your budget accordingly.
Monitor your campaign’s performance and make adjustments as needed. Track key metrics such as impressions, clicks, and conversions to ensure you’re getting the most out of your promotion.
Benefits of Using Digital Platforms
Digital platforms such as social media, email, and websites can be used to promote discounts and promotions. Digital platforms have a much wider reach than traditional print marketing channels, such as fliers and door hangers making it easier to reach more customers and potential customers. By utilizing social media or email marketing campaigns, you’re able to offer promotions at a significantly lower cost than traditional marketing channels, making it more affordable to reach a wider audience. Digital platforms allow businesses to engage with customers more directly, allowing them to build relationships and create loyalty.
Running a Promotion on Your Google Ad Campaign Being found first on Google is gold. When you’re found, you want to give customers every reason to click on your ad over the competition. Promotions can also help you generate more conversions. By offering a discount or special offer, customers may be more likely to buy your product or service. Running a promotion on your Google Ad campaign will boost your visibility and increase your chances of being seen by potential customers. Promotions can help draw attention to your ad, making it more likely to be clicked on. Promotions can also increase your click-through rate, meaning more people will click on your ad and visit your website. This can help you generate more leads and potentially convert more customers.
How to Measure the Success of a Promotion
Track Revenue: Track the revenue generated from the promotional offer to measure the success of the offer.
Monitor Sales: Monitor the number of sales during the promotional period to determine the effectiveness of the offer.
Monitor Customer Engagement: Track customer engagement with the offer, such as the number of clicks, views, and shares, to measure the reach of the offer.
Analyze Customer Feedback: Analyze customer feedback to measure customer satisfaction with the offer.
Track Return on Investment: Track the return on investment (ROI) of the promotional offer to measure its success.
Conclusion
Running promotions can be an effective way for businesses to attract new customers, increase sales, and build loyalty. Promotions can also help businesses stand out from their competitors and increase their brand awareness. When planning a promotion, it’s important to consider the target audience, the budget, and the desired outcome. By tracking the performance of their promotions, businesses can measure the success and adjust their strategy if needed. Promotions are an effective way to boost customer engagement as well as increase brand awareness. With the right strategy, businesses can use promotions to increase their customer base, encourage repeat purchases, and generate more revenue.
Benefits of Adopting & Consequences of Noncompliance
A2P 10DLC Registration
There have always been rules and regulations regarding sending SMS marketing messages, but there are some new important requirements you may not be aware of. In order to cut down on the number of spam messages, U.S. wireless carriers, the Federal Communications and Commission (FCC), and the Mobile Marketing Association (MMC) are requiring businesses to register their numbers with The Campaign Registry (TCR). Local and toll-free numbers used by businesses to text end users for everything from notifications and surveys to marketing and promotions must be registered.
What Information Do I Need for A2P 10 DLC Registration?
In order to successfully register your business properly, there are several key pieces of information, including:
Business Information: Businesses need to provide the legal name, physical address, contact information, and any relevant identifiers or registration numbers associated with the business entity.
Campaign Use Information: Businesses must also specify the purpose and intended use of their A2P messaging campaigns. You will need to outline the types of messages that will be sent, whether promotional, informational, transactional, or for any other specific purposes.
Opt-In and Opt-Out: Regardless of whether the business intends to use opt-in messaging, they are still required to provide a clear opt-out mechanism for recipients. This means including opt-out keywords such as “STOP,” “UNSUBSCRIBE,” or any other standard keywords that allow recipients to stop receiving messages.
Benefits of A2P 10DLC Registration
A2P 10DLC registration is helping to create a more reliable communication ecosystem and offers many benefits for businesses, including:
Improved Message Delivery: Registered numbers receive favorable treatment from mobile carriers meaning messages being sent from registered numbers aren’t as likely to be flagged as spam, resulting in higher deliverability rates. With better delivery rates, businesses can effectively reach their target audience and ensure their messages are received in a timely manner.
Enhanced Credibility: A2P 10 DLC registration signifies that a business has undergone the verification process and complied with the requirements at hand. This enhances the trustworthiness of the business in the eyes of customers.
Streamlined Opt-In and Opt-Out Process: A2P 10 DLC registration requires businesses to establish a clear opt-in and opt-out mechanism for recipients. This helps build a positive user experience by allowing users who wish to stop receiving messages to easily opt-out, promoting customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Business Identity Protection: Registration also helps businesses safeguard their reputation and protect themselves from potential misuse or unauthorized use of their brand or identity.
What Are The Consequences of Not Completing A2P 10DLC Registration?
Failure to complete A2P 10DLC registration will result in significant consequences and penalties. The Participating Carrier Requirements strictly prohibit the sending of Unregistered and/or Non-Migrated traffic, and the 10DLC delivery hub retains the right to take action to ensure compliance, including:
Suspension: If your number is not properly registered with the Campaign Registry, the 10DLC delivery hub could take action against you including suspension, termination, or blocking non-sanctioned messages to maintain compliance with carrier requirements.
Ban: Mobile carriers have the right to ban businesses that use unregistered A2P 10DLC numbers. If you are banned, it will affect your ability to communicate via SMS with customers and impact your brand reputation.
Message Delivery Block: Messages that are sent from unregistered numbers may also be blocked by mobile carriers. This results in your intended recipients likely not receiving the messages resulting in your SMS campaigns being ineffective and missing out on potential business opportunities.
Financial Penalties: Mobile carriers and the campaign registry have the power to impose fines on those who fail to comply with A2P 10DLC registration requirements. These fines may be as high as $10 per message as well as additional monthly fees. If you’re running large SMS campaigns, this could lead to heavy fines.
As a small business owner, you know how important it is to finish the year strong. But sometimes, despite our best efforts, those end-of-year goals can feel like a distant dream. Fear not! With over a decade of experience working with small businesses to achieve their EOY goals, we compiled a simple checklist for you to easily boost leads before year’s end. After mastering these five steps for success, you’ll feel unstoppable.
1. Define Your Goals
First things first, it’s time to define or even redefine your goals. Often, people fail to define their goals precisely, leading to confusion and lack of direction. Using the SMART method, you can set objectives that are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-based.
For example, if your goal this year was to purchase more equipment, the SMART goal version would offer a simple framework to get you started. Your goal would easily transform from “I want to purchase new equipment this year” into “I will buy two new $4,000 carpet extractors by EOY through gaining 5-6 recurring commercial cleaning clients and saving a total of $8,000 from September to December.” Our free SMART Goals spreadsheet will help you keep your goals organized and achievable.
2. Get Referrals
We all know how challenging, frustrating, and time-consuming acquiring new clients can be. Having satisfied clients refer others to you produces the most valuable leads. Establishing a flow of these valuable leads can make your life much easier. All you need to do is ask! With the help of happy customers, you can gain new clients who already know and trust your services.
Try using one of these three easy referral scripts to get started:
“If you’ve had a positive experience with our product/service, would you be willing to recommend us to someone you know who might benefit from it?”
“We’re offering a 10% discount to any customer who refers a friend to us. If you know someone who might be interested, please let them know and have them mention your name when they sign up.”
Hey there (name)! I hope you’ve been enjoying our [product/service] as much as we love providing it. If you know anyone who could benefit from it, we’d be thrilled if you could send them our way. We’re passionate about our work and always want to help more people.
3. Invest in High-Quality Leads
Here at 99 Calls, we believe you shouldn’t have to pay for leads that aren’t a good fit for your business. That’s why our Organic SEO clients are only charged for leads that are looking for services you provide in the area you serve. But even great leads can need a little convincing, which is where a few tips on how to close your leads can help.
4. Frequently and Consistently Add Content
Updating your website with valuable content is another must-do for reaching your EOY goals. We can’t stress this enough – high-value content like photos of your work, positive customer reviews, and updated specials will help you build trust with your customers and improve your rankings on Google. Trust us, the more we can put on your website, the better! (And don’t worry, we’ll be here to help.)
5. Evaluate Your Online Presence for SEO
Finally, we recommend getting an account review. If you’re using our Organic Lead Generation services, you’ve likely already received a few of these in-depth evaluations of your online presence and reputation. But even if you haven’t received yours yet, feel free to schedule a review at any time. It’s a free opportunity to go over your organic stats and hear expert recommendations to ensure that you’re on track to meet your EOY goals.
So there you have it – 5 easy steps to help you reach your small business EOY goals. With a little effort and a lot of determination, we’re confident that you’ll finish the year strong.
Understanding and meeting the needs of your customers is crucial for success in the highly competitive landscape of businesses today. One of the most effective ways to gauge customer satisfaction is via surveys. Customer satisfaction surveys provide valuable insights into your customer’s experiences with your business. The major benefit of surveying customers on their satisfaction with your business is that you are able to gauge where different aspects of your business are lacking or excelling. Identifying these areas will help to develop a game plan to make improvements where necessary. Making adjustments based on the feedback you’ve received lets customers know that you are truly listening to them and respecting their time and opinions. When customers feel heard and respected, they’re more likely to remain loyal customers.
Since early 2022, 99 Calls has been surveying customers to learn more about their satisfaction with our lead generation services. Throughout the year last year, 271 customers participated in the survey. Here are our results.
Effective Customer Service
According to the data we collected, the majority of our customers were satisfied with the level of customer service we provided. When asked how well 99 Calls representatives answered their questions, respondents gave an impressive rating of 4.57 out of 5. Over 70% of participants gave 99 Calls a perfect 5/5 score.
Responsiveness
How quickly a business responds to customer inquiries has an impact on customer satisfaction. Over 68% of survey takers rated 99 Calls customer service reps a perfect 5/5 score when it came to responsiveness. By continually monitoring response times, businesses are able to improve, demonstrating their commitment to efficient customer support, and fostering positive customer experiences and loyalty.
Tailoring Lead Generation Efforts
In our survey, we also wanted to shed light on our customers’ satisfaction in regard to the lead volume they receive each month. Over 28% of respondents expressed being very satisfied with the lead volume they received, while over 24% indicated satisfaction and another 22% were neutral. Fewer than 25% of respondents desired a higher lead volume. However, it is important to note that a significant portion of them had not provided the necessary content for successful search engine optimization (SEO). By addressing these concerns and aligning lead volume with customer expectations, we are better able to enhance overall marketing effectiveness and drive better results.
Identifying Additional Service Opportunities
Suppose you are looking for ways to expand your business but aren’t sure which path to choose. In that case, customer satisfaction surveys can serve as a valuable source of information for identifying additional services that customers desire. By leveraging customer feedback, businesses are able to better understand their customers’ evolving needs and develop new services or features to meet those demands, driving growth and staying ahead of the competition.
Conclusion
Customer satisfaction surveys provide businesses with crucial insights into customer experiences, preferences, and areas for improvement. The data that 99 Calls have received via their own surveys demonstrates the positive impact they have on enhancing customer service, improving responsiveness, tailoring lead generation efforts, and identifying additional service opportunities. Businesses can create lasting, meaningful relationships and drive long-term success with their clients by actively listening and acting upon customer feedback.
Unleashing the Power of Targeted Google Ads with SEO Strategies to Drive Digital Marketing Success
by Kirstin Raisch
Online visibility and effective marketing strategies are crucial for the success of any business. Many business owners may not be sure what path to take to be successful with digital marketing. 99 Calls has helped Yimi Skin Spa find success with running digital marketing campaigns.
Yimi’s Specialty Post-Surgery Offerings
Yimi Skin Spa specializes in providing exceptional care to patients seeking pain relief, improved fascial mobility, and manual postoperative lymphatic drainage. With a diverse range of services for post-surgery recovery assistance, Yimi Skin Spa is dedicated to supporting patients throughout their healing journey. Recognizing the significance of the recovery phase in the healing process, Yimi places great emphasis on this crucial aspect of patient care. Their team of skilled professionals works diligently to assist patients in achieving optimal results and regaining their well-being after surgery.
Yimi Skin Spa’s commitment to excellence ensures that patients receive the highest standard of care within the industry. With a compassionate approach and a focus on personalized treatment plans, they strive to address each patient’s unique needs effectively. Whether managing post-surgery discomfort, enhancing fascial mobility, or promoting lymphatic system health, Yimi Skin Spa is dedicated to helping patients achieve a smoother and more comfortable recovery journey. With their expertise and dedication, patients trust Yimi Skin Spa to provide the best care and support throughout the healing process.
The Journey Begins
Yimi Skin Spa started a digital marketing program with 99 calls back in March 2022. With over 10 years of experience in medical lymphatic drainage & post-surgery recovery, Yimi Skin Spa wanted help with getting positioned in front of people needing their services. That’s why they called 99 calls, seeking help with their online marketing and a way to generate more leads. With the help of experienced digital marketing specialists, they were able to begin their journey into the digital marketing world. 99 calls had set them on the path with two robust services, Organic, and Google Advertisement. With Yimi Skin Spa heading down this path, only time could tell how powerful these two services could be to the company.
Understanding the Power of Organic Strategies
99 calls understands the importance of search engine optimization (SEO) in driving organic traffic and visibility to the site. Leveraging social media platforms and engaging with the community builds trust and a strong online presence. Harnessing the potential of online reviews and testimonials boosts credibility and attracts potential clients. Crafting compelling content that resonates with the target audience establishes the company as an industry authority. With these factors in play, Yimi Skin Spa has been able to hone in on its industry and take it by storm!
Harnessing Google Ads for Strategic Growth
When it comes to generating leads with a Pay Per Click (PPC) campaign, 99 calls can navigate the intricacies of Google Ads and create targeted campaigns that drive quality leads. Using keyword research and optimization the team can achieve maximum visibility and conversion rates. Crafting persuasive ad copy and designing captivating landing pages encourage user engagement. With 99 calls managing the Yimi Skin Spas Google Ads account, Yimi saw the benefit of using Google Ads to generate leads very quickly.
With an ever-evolving digital marketing landscape, the unity between SEO content and Google Ads is vital for businesses seeking to maximize their online presence. By combining the long-term benefits of SEO with the immediate impact of Google Ads, companies can create a robust digital marketing campaign that ensures a strong and sustainable online presence.
The Journey Continues!
When Yimi Skin Spa first started working with 99 Calls for lead generation, they had the lead team build a PPC campaign to get leads coming faster than SEO would yield. After seeing quick results over the first few months, they were able to pull back on paid Google Ads spending and gain enough new leads per month through SEO/Organic lead generation efforts.
The success story of Yimi Skin Spa serves as a testament to the potential of integrating organic strategies and Google Ads to drive business growth. By harnessing the power of search engine optimization, compelling content creation, and targeted paid advertising, Yimi Skin Spa has emerged as a frontrunner in their industry, attracting a loyal customer base and achieving unparalleled success. Their journey offers valuable insights and inspiration for other businesses seeking to leverage the power of digital marketing to thrive in today’s competitive landscape.
