User-generated content (UGC) and Google reviews have become essential references for those seeking details about nearby businesses, dining establishments, and tourist destinations.
Recognising the significance of these contributions, Google introduced the Local Guides Program. This initiative forms a global community of volunteers who willingly share their insights and experiences by composing reviews, posting pictures, and updating details about locations on Google Maps.
In this blog post, we’ll delve into the intricacies of the Google Local Guides Program, exploring how to earn points and badges while benefiting from the program’s perks.
Table of Contents
What is the Google Local Guides Program?
The Google Local Guides Program, launched in 2015, empowers individuals to enrich the accuracy of Google Maps by sharing insights, reviews, photos, and additional information about local places and businesses. It has grown into a thriving global community with millions of members.
The program’s primary objective is to provide users with reliable and up-to-date information about various locations, enabling informed decisions and the discovery of hidden gems in their localities or travel destinations.
Local Guides engage in various activities, including reviewing businesses, uploading photos, suggesting edits to place information, answering questions, and adding new places to Google Maps. Their collective efforts result in a more comprehensive and trustworthy database of location-based information, enhancing the experience for all Google Maps users.
Why Local Guides Matter for Users and Businesses
Through user-generated content, individuals can discover the best local spots, from charming cafes to must-visit landmarks, all based on the authentic experiences of fellow explorers. Whether planning a weekend getaway or simply looking for a new dining spot in your area, these reviews and photos offer valuable guidance and recommendations.
For businesses, the contributions of Local Guides can significantly impact their online visibility and reputation. Positive reviews and engaging photos posted by Local Guides can attract more customers and enhance the overall perception of a business. Moreover, businesses can build customer trust and loyalty by actively engaging with reviews and responding to feedback.
The Local Guides Program also allows businesses to highlight their unique offerings and differentiate themselves from competitors. Businesses can organically reach a wider audience through partnerships and collaborations with Local Guides and showcase what sets them apart.
The Benefits of Being a Local Guide
Participating in the Local Guides Program offers numerous advantages, making it appealing to those who enjoy exploring and sharing experiences. Some benefits include:
1. Recognition and Reputation Building
- Badges: Local Guides earn badges for their contributions, showcasing expertise in specific areas or types of places.
- Profile Recognition: Your profile becomes a digital portfolio of contributions visible to other users viewing your reviews, photos, and content.
2. Early Access and Perks
- Exclusive Invitations: Active Local Guides may receive invites to exclusive events and programs hosted by Google.
- Early Access: Some Local Guides gain early access to new Google Maps features, allowing them to test and provide feedback on upcoming changes.
3. Real-world Rewards
- Google Drive Storage: Depending on your level, you can receive additional Google Drive storage space as a perk.
- Local Perks: In certain regions, active Local Guides may receive discounts or special offers from local businesses.
4. Community Engagement
- Connect with Like-Minded People: Joining the Local Guides community allows you to connect with others who share your passion for exploring and contributing to local knowledge.
- Support and Recognition: The community often recognises and celebrates the accomplishments of its members.
5. Making a Difference
- Helping Others: Contributions benefit other Google Maps users by providing accurate information and valuable insights.
- Supporting Local Businesses: Local Guides can positively impact their online visibility and success by reviewing and promoting local businesses.
How to Earn Points in the Google Local Guides Program
Earning points is central to the Google Local Guides Program experience. Points serve as a measure of your contributions; as you accumulate them, you progress through different levels within the program. Higher levels offer increased recognition and perks.
Here’s how you can earn points:
1. Write Reviews (10 Points per Review; 10 bonus points per review that are more than 200 characters)
- Craft detailed, honest, and helpful reviews of places you’ve visited.
- Each review can earn you between 10 points, and if your review is more than 200 characters, you will earn 10 bonus points per review.
- Attach relevant photos to provide visual context and enhance appeal.
2. Upload Photos (5 Points per Photo; 3 Points per Tag; 10 Points per Caption)
- Share high-quality photos of places, businesses, or attractions.
- Each photo can earn you 5 points, while each tag can earn you 3 points.
- Write captions for your photos to provide additional information or context and it can earn you 10 points per caption.
3. Upload Video (7 Points per Video)
- Earn 7 points for each video you upload. These videos provide a visual experience and an indication of the quality, ambience, and other information about the service or products of the business you’re reviewing.
4. Answer Questions (1 Point per Answer; 3 Points per Response)
- Be helpful by answering questions from other Google Maps users.
- Each answer you provide earns you 1 point.
- Each response you provide for Q&As earn you 3 points.
5. Add New Places or Roads (15 Points per Place or Road)
- If you discover a place or road not yet listed on Google Maps, you can add it.
- Once your addition is verified, you’ll earn 15 points.
6. Edit Place Information (5 Points per Edit)
- Suggest edits to place information, such as addresses or phone numbers.
- Each approved edit earns you 5 points.
7. Fact-Check (1 Points per Fact-Checked)
- Verify information or confirm details of a place.
- Each contribution is worth 1 points.
Badges You Can Earn
If you continue submitting reviews or uploading images through the Google Maps application, you will acquire special badges . These badges are permanent and visible to anyone viewing your Google Maps profile.
Google Local Guides Levels
Local Guides progress through various levels as they earn points, with each level offering increased recognition and benefits.
Here’s an overview of the levels:
Tips for Maximising Your Points and Badges
To become a highly regarded Local Guide and enjoy the associated rewards, consider these tips:
- Quality over Quantity: Prioritise detailed, well-written reviews and high-quality photos.
- Be Genuine: Write honest and helpful reviews as authenticity resonates with readers.
- Consistency: Regularly contribute to maintaining your point total and progressing through the levels.
- Explore New Places: Venture beyond your comfort zone to diversify your contributions.
- Engage with the Community: Participate in discussions, attend meetups (if available), and support fellow Local Guides.
- Keep Information Updated: Continuously verify and update place information for accuracy.
- Read and Follow Guidelines: Familiarise yourself with Google’s content and conduct guidelines to avoid violations.
Get Started as a Local Guide Today!
To join, visit the Google Local Guides signup page and click “Get Started.” From there, you can begin contributing your reviews, photos, and information about local places on Google Maps.
As you accumulate points and progress through the levels, you’ll unlock badges and enjoy exclusive perks while helping others discover the best their local area has to offer.
For business owners, you have the option to gather Google Business Profile (GBP) reviews by following our guide or enlist the assistance of our digital marketing consultants to manage this for you.
