Already, we are in a new year and for some of us 2023 ended with a bang. Surely, we may want to review our journey last year and decide how best to navigate in the current year. New year resolutions are popular in some climes while individuals tend to set goals for the year. So what do you want to achieve in 2024, as a Local Guide?
Local Guide’s New Year’s resolution could focus on different aspects of their passion for exploring and sharing local knowledge. Here are a few ideas:
Explore Google Maps:
You can tour your local area or community to discover hidden gems, historical sites, and uncover unique experiences you haven’t shared yet. Go outdoors and explore businesses on the map. Check if the information is correct and you can even talk to some about accessibility.
Remember to focus on quality over quantity, and become an expert on your own community.
Enhance your photography and videography skills: Level up your visual storytelling to showcase the beauty and hidden charm of your local area. Experiment with new angles, lighting, and editing techniques to captivate viewers.
Write more engaging reviews: Go beyond generic descriptions and delve into the unique details that make a place special. Share personal anecdotes, local history, and insider tips to create reviews that truly stand out.
Caption: A screen shot of a message I received from Google Maps saying my update is helping in a big way.
Connect and Contribute:
The Local Guides Connect Forum is a melting pot for contributors worldwide. You can share your story and journey to help others share in your experience. On the platform we get to meet welcome new local guides, learn about various community activities and most importantly get latest information from Googlers. So, find time to visit connect regularly in order to stay up to date and connected.
Meet-up:
If you have never hosted a meet-up previously, this is an opportunity to beat that procrastination. Make it a goal this new year to bring other Local Guides in your community together. It could just be to chat about food, photos or anything of interest. Share your knowledge and learn from each other, creating a strong local community of discovery.
This will provide opportunity to connect with fellow Local Guides which may lead to further collaborations with other passionate explorers to organize outings, events, or photo walks.
Even when you visit a new city, you can invite other local guides to meet and greet.
Caption: A selfie showing a group of Local Guides and Traci holding a placard with the word “Meet-ups” during a group discussion on meet-ups in San Jose
Make Significant Impact:
Do you wish to make significant impact in your community? Then try to focus on some important issues like accessibility, sustainability, human rights, women led business etc.
Accessibility: Highlight businesses and attractions that cater to people with disabilities, ensuring everyone has access to their services. Looking learn more about inclusion and disability? Then join the One Accessibility Initiative.
Sustainability: Promote green ideas. Create awareness about eco-friendly local businesses and initiatives, encouraging responsible tourism and environmental consciousness. Volunteer to collect recyclable wastes at local points and campaign against water pollution.
Local businesses: In your community, you can promote small businesses, hidden gems, and local entrepreneurs to help them thrive and contribute to the vibrancy of the community. By boosting their visibility on Google Maps, you will help potential customers discover these businesses on the go while enabling economic growth.
Caption: A graphic banner with accessibility sign and words The International Day of Persons with Disabilities organized by One Accessibility Group.
Level Up:
While you are having fun exploring, engaging in meet-ups and making impact, do not forget to level up! You should aim for higher contribution levels by adding detailed reviews, high-quality photos, and informative videos. Of course there are some contributions that may give you higher points. Explore the latest in caption too but most importantly strive for accuracy and helpfulness in your content as you move to the next level.
Remember, the best aspect of a New Year resolution or goal setting is to choose something you are passionate about and that aligns with your personal goals. By setting achievable goals and focusing on making a positive impact on your community, Local Guides can have a rewarding and fulfilling year.
I hope this inspires you to craft your own Local Guide New Year’s resolution!