You may have received an email this afternoon from AdWords, announcing the transition to local call extensions (when applicable). This is a great feature and I know we at Clix are looking forward to the results. Often times, a toll free number can be associated with long call queues. In case you didn’t receive the email, the details are below!
The Details
Google is updating forwarding numbers for call extensions to include local phone numbers. This means that your ads will soon be eligible to show a local Google forwarding number using the same area code as your business phone number or at least an area code for the same region. For example, if your business is based in San Francisco, CA, your ads will be eligible to use a 415 area code. Google notes that they understand that many local businesses can benefit from featuring ads with local numbers, since people are more likely to call a number with a recognizable area code.
The Roll Out
Beginning in early November 2014, ads with call extensions set up to use a local phone number will automatically begin to show a local Google forwarding number, where available. In some cases, local Google forwarding numbers may not be available. If this occurs, your ad will show a number with an area code for the same region or a toll-free Google forwarding number.
Next steps
While you don’t need to take any action, you may want to review and change your call extensions phone numbers to either a toll-free or local number based on your business goals. For more information, check out the AdWords Help Section. Google also noted that if you have any questions about this change, you can reach out to your account team for more information.
