Hey fellow Local Guides! We all know the drill: reviews, photos, Q&As – the usual suspects for boosting businesses on Google Maps. But what if I told you there are some less-traveled paths to truly make an impact and supercharge those business listings? Here are some uncommon ways to flex your Local Guide muscles! 
1. The “Off-Peak” Photo Power-Up 
We all love a good photo of a bustling restaurant or a vibrant storefront. But what about the off-peak hours? Think about it: a bakery at 6 AM with freshly baked goods cooling, a gym when it’s quiet enough to show off the equipment clearly, or a park in the gentle evening light. These photos offer a different, often more practical, perspective for potential customers.
They can help someone visualize a less crowded experience, see details they might miss during busy times, or even plan their visit better. Plus, you’ll stand out from the crowd of peak-time snapshots! So next time you’re out and about, consider capturing the serene side of local businesses. 
2. Micro-Accessibility Missions 
As Local Guides, we often focus on broad accessibility features like wheelchair ramps. But let’s get granular! Think about micro-accessibility. Does the restaurant have large print menus available? Are the restrooms equipped with easy-to-use lever handles instead of knobs? Is there a quiet corner for those sensitive to noise?
These small details can make a huge difference for people with specific needs. When you add these nuanced accessibility attributes to business listings (and even mention them in reviews!), you’re not just helping one person, you’re building a more inclusive and welcoming digital map for everyone. It’s like adding a layer of thoughtful consideration to every pin. 
3. The “Service Spotlight” Deep Dive 
Most reviews focus on the overall experience or the products. But what about highlighting specific, often overlooked, services? For a hair salon, instead of just “great haircut,” mention their amazing scalp massage or how they expertly handle color corrections. For a hardware store, maybe it’s their key duplication service or their plant nursery expertise.
By specifically mentioning these niche services in your reviews or adding them as attributes, you’re not only providing more detailed information but also helping businesses attract customers looking for those very specific offerings. It’s like being a consultant, pairing niche solutions with eager customers! 
Happy Guiding
So there you have it, three uncommon ways to elevate your Local Guide contributions on Google Maps. Go forth and explore and contribute– your fellow users and local businesses will thank you! Happy guiding!
Got any other tips to share that are less common but helpful to our community? Share 
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