When I discovered Google Maps, very few people in my circle of friends knew about this web app that would help you navigate from point A to point B easily.
To me it was groundbreaking, I didn’t need to carry around a map for every city I visited. The technology was making things easier for everyone.
The tool has evolved over the years. Today I can’t imagine a world without it.
One day, I realized there was some useful information about places on the map and learned that information was provided by users like me. As a fan of Google Maps, I started adding information about my favorite places; some of them weren’t in Maps at the time, so I added them. When I find a place I enjoy, I want to share it with the world.
As a foodie, living in a medium-sized city in Mexico, I thought my options were pretty limited. When I wanted to try new things, I thought my best bet was to travel to large cities. Thanks to Google Maps, I got to know some hidden gems in town. And plenty of choices, too!
Suddenly, I was following recommendations from people I haven’t met, but somehow I trust. That’s what the Local Guides program means to me. A tremendous group of enthusiastic people who love to share their experiences.
In my everyday work, I use Google Maps as a tool to find all kinds of places. And I’ve learned that the Local Guides community is always eager to help. People update information constantly; add phone numbers to places, correct office hours, update addresses when a business changes location, etc. Saving the rest of us some time and helping strangers for the joy of it.
The best part: the reward.
Perhaps the reason that makes us, local guides, keep adding photos, reviews or new places to Google Maps is knowing it actually helped someone. Whenever I see those emails from Google that my photos have been seen by thousands or that my review was useful for a single person it feels like a great reward. Perhaps it’s neither a tangible prize nor money, but it feels great knowing that you helped someone in your community.
What about You? Why do You keep doing it?
