Local Guide Program Benefits: Google Rewards
As a Local Guide, you earn points for sharing reviews, photos, and knowledge on Google Maps. Those points lead to higher levels of the program, as well as benefits like early access to Google features and special perks from partners.
Local Guides are not paid, nor may they earn money for their contributions, per our program rules. The Local Guides program is for individuals who contribute to Google Maps and who like to help others discover and explore their world. But they can earn other benefits, like early access to new Google products.
Local Guides is a global community of explorers who write reviews, share photos, answer questions, add or edit places, and check facts on Google Maps. Millions of people rely on contributions like yours to decide where to go and what to do.
As a Local Guide, you earn points for sharing reviews, photos, and knowledge on Google Maps. Those points lead to higher levels of the program, as well as benefits like early access to Google features and special perks from partners.
Becoming a Google Local Guide is really easy! Just go to the Google Local Guide website and join. If you have an existing Google account, then you can link it to that; otherwise, just sign up and you’re on your way. Then all you need to do is leave reviews and ratings and upload images of places you’ve been.
Overview
Local Guides is a global network of travelers who add or change locations on Google Maps, write reviews, share photos, answer questions, and check the accuracy of information. Your donations help millions decide where to go and what to do.
Turn into a local guide.
Choose your current location and sign up using your Google account. You gain points towards unlocked content for each location you evaluate, photograph, update, amend, or contribute extra information about on Google Maps.
Who may serve as a local guide?
Everywhere Google Maps is available, local guides are also available. Google Maps is currently accessible in more than 40 different nations and languages.
The Local Guides program is aimed at private citizens, not at companies. Business or business page contributions will not count towards the levels or perks of local guides.
You must be of legal age in your country to participate in local guides. See the Local Guides Program Terms and Conditions for additional details.
Advice: After you turn 18, your Google account may not update for up to 9 weeks.
- What is the Local Guide program?
- What does it mean to be a local guide?
- Who can be a local guide?
- How do you become a Google local guide?
- Why become a Google Local Guide?
- What is the benefit of being a Google local guide?
- Can Google local guides get paid?
- How Does a Google Local Guide Contribute to Listings?
- How Do You Get a Google Local Guide for Your Business?
- The Power of a Google Local Guide
- Conclusion
What is the Local Guide program?
The Local Guides Program is a global community of explorers who write reviews, share photos, answer questions, add or edit places, and verify data on Google Maps. Millions of people rely on contributions like yours to decide where to go and what to do.
As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, the Local Guides program is a community-driven initiative by Google that encourages individuals to contribute information about local places on Google Maps. The program allows users to share their knowledge and experiences by writing reviews, adding photos, updating information, and answering questions about various locations.
Local Guides earn points for their contributions, and as they accumulate points, they can unlock different levels within the program, each offering additional benefits such as early access to new Google features, exclusive perks, or even invitations to Local Guides events. The program aims to enhance the accuracy and usefulness of information on Google Maps, making it a more valuable resource for users.
What Does It Mean to Be a Local Guide?
Like the people who bring Google Maps to life, the Local Guides Program writes reviews, posts photos, and collects data that makes navigating the world easier, tastier, and more fun. The badge symbolizes experience in the field and a commitment to share everyday experiences that inform decisions in real-time around the world.
From photographing a must-have dish to adding a small business, Local Guides capture stories that lead neighbors, travelers, and everyone else toward a better understanding of the places around them. The community takes that mission seriously. Local Guides earn their badges through consistent contributions that express these values. Please review the following guidelines to avoid being removed from the program.
Pros of Hiring Local Tour Guides When Traveling
You will learn about the culture and history of the place on a deeper level and from a local’s perspective. You will learn about etiquette and behavior (especially important at religious sites). You will be able to ask as many questions as you want.
Share thoughtful reviews and tips
It’s in the details. Always include prominent information about a place and your experience. Avoid vague, generic, and repetitive comments, such as reviews that just say “ok,” “good,” or “yum.” Describe the setting, layout, vibe, ups and downs, and relevant details.
Restaurants, Cafes, and Bars – Say what you ordered and would recommend or avoid.
Stores: Describe the selection, price range, service, and type of clientele you might like.
Local Guides that duplicate reviews at all locations will be removed from the program.
Do local guides get paid?
They don’t pay you to be a local guide. Google Localguides is a volunteer program with which you can share your knowledge about the places you visit on Google Maps. Google can send you some benefits for your adventures.
Google’s Local Guides program did not provide direct monetary compensation to participants. Instead, Local Guides earn points for contributing information about local places on Google Maps, such as writing reviews, adding photos, and updating details. These points contribute to the Local Guides’ level within the program, and higher levels unlock various benefits, such as early access to new features, exclusive events, and sometimes perks from Google partners.
It’s important to note that the specifics of the program, including any changes or updates, may have evolved since my last update. For the latest and most accurate information, I recommend checking Google’s official Local Guides website or reviewing the terms and conditions within the Local Guides section of the Google Maps app.
Who can be a Local Guide?
Local guides are offered everywhere on Google Maps. Currently, Google Maps is available in more than 40 countries and languages. The Local Guides program is for individuals, not companies. Contributions from companies or commercial pages will not count towards the local guide level or benefits.
the Local Guides program is open to individuals around the world who use Google Maps and want to contribute information about local places. It’s generally an open and inclusive community that welcomes anyone interested in sharing their experiences and knowledge about various locations.
To become a Local Guide, you typically need a Google account and should be signed in to Google Maps. Once you’ve signed in, you can start contributing by writing reviews, adding photos, updating information, and answering questions about different places. As you contribute, you earn points that contribute to your Local Guides level, unlocking various benefits.
It’s worth noting that the specific requirements or eligibility criteria may have evolved since my last update, so it’s a good idea to check the latest information on Google’s official Local Guides website or within the Google Maps app for the most accurate details.
You must be 18 years or older to participate in Local Guides. For more information, see the Local Guide Program Terms and Conditions.
- Note: It can take up to 9 weeks after age 18 to update your Google account.
How do I become a Google local guide?
Becoming a Google Local Guide is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Create a Google Account: If you don’t already have a Google Account, you’ll need to create one. Visit the Google Account creation page and follow the steps to set up your account.
- Sign In to Google Maps: Use your Google Account credentials to sign in to Google Maps. You can access Google Maps on the web or use the mobile app on your smartphone.
- Start Contributing: Once signed in, you can start contributing to Google Maps by adding information about local places. This can include writing reviews, uploading photos, answering questions, and updating details about businesses or locations.
- Earn Points: As you contribute, you’ll earn points. The more points you accumulate, the higher your Local Guides level will be.
- Check Your Level and Benefits: You can view your Local Guides level and associated benefits within the Google Maps app or on the Local Guides website. Different levels come with various perks, such as early access to new features, exclusive events, or Google Drive storage.
- Continue Contributing: To maintain or increase your Local Guides level, continue contributing regularly. This can involve reviewing new places, updating information, and engaging with the Google Maps community.
Remember that the details of the Local Guides program may change, so it’s a good idea to check the official Local Guides website or within the Google Maps app for the most up-to-date information and any changes to the program. Becoming a Google Local Guide is really easy! Just go to the Google Local Guide website and join.
Here’s how to join the Local Guide Program:
- Sign in to your Google account.
- Open Google Maps on your smartphone or computer.
- Tap on your profile picture or initial in the top right corner.
- Select “Your contributions” from the menu.
- Scroll down to the “Join the Local Guides” section.
- Follow the prompts to join the program. Once you’ve joined, you can start contributing and earning points to unlock program benefits.
If you have an existing Google account, you can link it to it; otherwise, just sign up and you’re on your way.
Then all you need to do is leave reviews and ratings and upload pictures of the places you’ve been.
Must Read: Elisa Gayle Ritter
Why become a Google Local Guide?
The main reason you might want to become a Local Guide is that you love sharing information about the places you’ve been. If you always wanted to be a tour guide, but another career got in your way, this is definitely for you. Do you love a dish in a restaurant and can’t tell people enough? This is for you.
Do you have a secret place that has the best view of the sunset over the Taj Mahal? Share it on Google! Or just make sure people have the best possible experience while avoiding the not-so-great ones, then the life of a local Google Guide is for you. There are also incentives, tiers, and badges to unlock, and a certain status that comes with the title Local Guide in any comment you leave.
For every star rating, written review, and photos you contribute, you will earn points that take you through the different levels of the Local Guide program.
Read Also: Airtel Customer Care Number
Google describes its Local Guides as a community. Members of the community are local consumers who go out and rate local businesses, take photos, share their experiences, leave reviews, answer questions based on their direct knowledge of those businesses, add places not listed on Maps, and check facts.
Participation is rewarded with points, badges, and perks. The rewards system tells us this work is meaningful to Google, which shouldn’t come as a surprise. Guides act as an army of fact-checkers and researchers with boots on the ground around the world.
Guides hit the streets specifically searching for, noting down, and uploading local business information in real-time. They are a hive mind for the search engine, helping it to ensure its Maps product is more accurate, more up-to-date, and superior to rival offerings.
It’s not a stretch to say that the work Guides do in their towns and cities around the world powers the whole Maps ecosystem.
Is being a Local Guide for Google worth it?
By earning points and badges through contributions, Local Guides not only receive recognition and perks but also make a significant impact on the experiences of millions of Google Maps users worldwide.
Whether being a Local Guide for Google is worth it depends on individual preferences, interests, and goals. Here are some factors to consider:
Benefits:
- Community Engagement: Local Guides often join a community of contributors who share information about local places. If you enjoy engaging with others and contributing to a community, it can be a rewarding experience.
- Recognition and Levels: Google offers recognition and badges for Local Guides based on their contributions. As you contribute more, you can progress to higher levels, unlocking additional perks.
- Exclusive Events: In some regions, Local Guides may be invited to exclusive events or receive early access to new Google features. This can provide unique experiences.
- Improving Maps Data: Your contributions help improve the accuracy and usefulness of information on Google Maps, benefiting other users.
Considerations:
- Volunteer Basis: Local Guides typically contribute on a voluntary basis. If you are looking for a paid gig, this may not be the right fit.
- Privacy Concerns: Contributing information about local places involves sharing details publicly. Consider your comfort level with sharing information and photos.
- Time Commitment: Depending on your level of involvement, being a Local Guide may require a significant time commitment. Assess whether you have the time to dedicate to contributions.
- Subjective Value: The value you derive from being a Local Guide is subjective. Some enjoy the sense of community and recognition, while others may find it less fulfilling.
Conclusion: If you enjoy exploring and sharing information about local places, engaging with a community, and contributing to the improvement of map data, being a Local Guide for Google can be a worthwhile and fulfilling experience. However, it’s essential to weigh the benefits against your personal preferences and goals to determine if it aligns with what you’re looking for.
What is the benefit of being a Google local guide?
As a Local Guide, you earn points for sharing reviews, photos, and insights on Google Maps. Those points lead to higher levels of the program, as well as benefits like early access to Google features and special partner benefits.
At level 4, you also unlock your first Local Guides badge, which helps get your contributions to places noticed. Make sure to sign up for updates by checking your email preferences on the Local Guides settings page.
The main reason you might want to become a Local Guide is that you love sharing information about places you’ve been to. If you always wanted to be a tour guide but another career got in the way, this is definitely for you. Love a dish at a restaurant and can’t tell enough people about?
This is for you. Got a secret spot that has the best view of the sun setting over the Taj Mahal? Share it on Google! Or just make sure that people are having the best experience they can while avoiding the not-so-good ones then the life of a Google Local Guide is for you.
There are also incentives, levels, and badges to unlock, and a certain status that comes with the title Local Guide on any reviews you leave.
For every star rating, written review, and photo you contribute, you earn points that carry you through the different levels of the Local Guide program.
Do Google Local Guides Paid?
Yes, Google pays its guides but not in cash. It is in terms of free paid Google services that we use in daily life.
Below is the detail of the different benefits you get by becoming a Google guide.
Level 1: 0+ points
- Get the scoop with our monthly newsletter
- Join Hangouts and workshops hosted by Google
- In selected countries, enter exclusive contests for Local Guides
- Join the conversation on Local Guides Connect
Level 2: 5+ points
- Get early access to new Google products and features
- Promote your own meetings on the Local Guides calendar.
Level 3: 50+ points
- Stand out with your Local Guides badge on Google Maps
- Be eligible to receive promotion from unofficial communities
Level 4: more than 200 points
- Be eligible to appear on our official online channels: Google+, Facebook, Twitter, and more
- Local Guides who reach level 4 at 11 p.m. EST on March 17, 2017, can unlock 100GB of free Google Drive storage.
- The benefit must be redeemed within 30 days of issuance and is valid for one year. This promotion will expire after the deadline.
Level 5: 500+ points
- Eligible for trusted testing opportunities – Access Google products and features before they go public
- Apply to attend our Level 5 Local Guides Summit
Quick Facts About the Spider Cricket
How A Google Local Guide Contribute to Listings
Each action of a Local Guide in a list is rewarded with a specific amount of points. This includes things like verifying information (1 point per fact), adding a new business (15 points), uploading a video (7 points), or leaving a review (10 points or 20 points for each review with more than 200 characters).
The number of points a user accumulates determines their Local Guide level, and there are 10 levels. At level 4 (250 cumulative points), the user will have a Local Guides badge next to their name on Maps. Google also offers rewards and perks for those who move up the rankings. Details are unclear, but Google says it offers “early access to Google features and special partner benefits.”
Many people also seem to ask if a Google Local Guide is paid for their services. As far as we know, the program is voluntary and the rewards listed above are the only things Local Guides can get from Google.
How To Get A Google Local Guide to Your Business
In most cases, it is difficult to identify local guides in person, unless they wear local guide-branded clothing or if you recognize their face from their many online presentations. The only way to get the maximum recognition from a local guide is to treat all of your clients equally.
It starts with a Google My Business listing that’s packed with great-looking photos and videos, as well as the right information and a solid local SEO strategy. To help increase online visibility, you also need to be proactive and learn how to request reviews, as well as learn how to respond to negative reviews.
Having a dedicated plan for generating reviews and comments doesn’t just help you save face; This may be the best way for future customers to gain valuable information to help improve the customer experience (which can be Google Local Guide).
How do you score points on Google Maps?
- The easiest way to earn points is to rate places. This is the simple star rating that you select and submit.
- If you want to put a bit more effort into it, you can leave a written review. Tell people about the place you’ve visited with a much or as little detail as you like. Be descriptive and share what’s good or bad, what does it look like and what is the vibe like. Anything that you think might be useful to future visitors.
- Reviews also help business owners refine their service with the feedback they receive. If you’re going to be critical, make sure your concerns are legitimate and written in a reasonable manner if possible, let’s all try to be kind people!
- A higher earner in Local Guide points is the photograph. Upload as many as you like, they help people get a feel of what the place looks like and what they might experience. Let’s face it, if you go somewhere with your phone you’re probably taking pics while you’re there so share!
- You can also add a venue or place. Some businesses don’t have a Google My Business page setup or claimed so you can help them out and put them on the map. There’s also something very satisfying about being the first to add a place to Maps.
- Along the same lines as this is editing existing information that’s out of date or no longer relevant. So if you look up a business and it says it’s open today and you get there are it’s actually closed, that sucks for everyone involved. In this case, you can suggest an edit for opening times, the category of the establishment or contact details for example.
- As you get a bit higher up the levels, you will be asked questions about places you’ve visited and reviewed. These questions earn you points and are useful for future visitors. A few good examples of this might be something like does a restaurant serve only vegetarian food or is a place suitable for children.
- And you can check facts about businesses. Like is that business still located at that address? If it’s not, you can say it’s permanently closed. By the same token, you can say that a business isn’t permanently closed even if some unscrupulous competitor says it is!
Google Local Guide points are your stepping stone up the levels, from one (the starting level from zero points) to level ten (100,000 points +). When you get to Level 4, you get a neat little badge that accompanies your reviews.
How do I unlock Google Local Guide points and badges?
As mentioned, Google Local Guides has a strong gamification aspect with each Guide rewarded for their contributions with points and badges.
Those points and badges can be traded for rewards with Google partners. You’ll need to make contributions to Maps to begin earning points, and then increase your activity to earn badges.
Contributions:
- Score a local business by giving it a rating
- Review a local business
- Share photos
- Upload video
- Answer a question about a place you have visited on Maps
- Ask a question and/or provide an answer on the information panel in the local search
- Edit information
- Add a missing place
- Check facts
The Power of a Google Local Guide
Level 5: 500 points with a new badge. Level 6: 1,500 points with a new badge. Level 7: 5,00 points with a new badge. Level 8: 15,000 points with a new badge. Level 9: 50,000 points with a new badge. Having a Google Local Guides that answers a question, leaves a review, or posts a picture for your listing on Maps can have a positive impact on your brand.
It shows that one of Google’s many highly reliable sources took the time to give your business a go, which can make it easier for future consumers to make a purchasing decision. However, it depends on the fact that your brand meets the virtual and physical expectations you set. Providing the right information online, along with a world-class experience anywhere, makes a locall guide happy, which means more customers and the opportunity to further improve the customer experience.
What does chronological order mean?
Conclusion
Google Local Guides presents an important duty for Google Maps: offering reviews, editing incorrect information, adding missing locations, and sharing images and videos. This information is useful to local consumers and the simplification of the system makes it a fun way for engaged search users to interact with Google products.
That said, there is no SEO reward for signing up for the Google Local Guides program, so you shouldn’t be part of any local search strategy or rely on perks like preferential editing or higher rankings. A Google Local Guide is anyone in the world who wants to contribute to the continued improvement of Google Maps and the information Maps gives its users.
It gives those that want to share their local knowledge and experiences an outlet to publish this information and become a Google Local Guide. It is a platform where you can share and publish your local knowledge and experiences to Google users looking for more information about a store or business.
Google launched the Local Guide program to enrich the quality of information available on Google Maps so people looking up places on Maps could get more key information about places. So if you think you want to contribute to Maps and get some perks along the way, being a Google Local Guide could be for you.
Becoming a Google Local Guide is really easy! Just go to the Google Local Guide website and Join. If you have an existing Google account, then you can link it to that; otherwise, just sign up and you’re on your way. Then all you need to do is leave reviews and ratings and upload images of places you’ve been.
Local Guide