LSA- benefits of the blue checkmark even if not running ads?

[Kaycie Smith]

I have a client who is being told by another marketing professional that "getting verified for Local Search Ads will help you rank higher in organic search, AI driven search and appear more times in the local 3 pack even if you don't run LSA's"

Basically saying the verification alone is a benefit- while not spending a cent.

I am always looking to learn new things but I don't believe this to be true and the claims seem laughable to me (btw, this client is doing paid ads with Adwords so already showing in maps with ads).

I don't have a ton of experience with LSA's so double checking with others who have more experience. TIA

 

[keyserholiday]

I seriously doubt that this is true.

 

[chadkimball]

Is it possible that the checkmark increases CTR which over time increases ranking?

 

[Kaycie Smith]

Is it possible that the checkmark increases CTR which over time increases ranking?

Hi Chad! Makes sense if you are running ads but if you aren't running ads, I think your check mark would not be visible. The suggestion above is that there is a benefit to getting verified and not even running and LSA campaign.

 

[chadkimball]

I wonder if verification is somehow a trust factor with google maps that causes them to rank you higher. Just brainstorming why your colleague would come to this conclusion.

 

[Kaycie Smith]

I wonder if verification is somehow a trust factor with google maps that causes them to rank you higher. Just brainstorming why your colleague would come to this conclusion.

Appreciate it!