I just signed up to be a Google Local Guide. My intention was to try to find out what the criteria was for an individual to become a Local Guide. I was surprised to find there really is no criteria to become a Guide and that even though one does not get paid for their input as a Guide but they do receive incentives. So I would like to present some food for thought for those of you that are “Local Guides”. Although it it helpful for people to look places up on Google and read the reviews I feel that you should keep one thing in mind - you are not an expert in any of the topics in which you are reviewing so when you write that review for the restaurant, hotel, store & etc. place yourself in the business owner’s or manager’s shoes. When choosing how you review, think of the impact it will have on that business and when writing the review make sure that you have all your information and that it is correct. Did you ask questions? Did you request replacements? If you place yourself as the owner or manager of that business I believe it would give you a whole different perspective and you might choose your words and statements with a little more care. Your review should be unbiased. You should not be writing a review just because you know someone that has a business but because the service they provide is either good or bad. During your visit did you talk to either the owner or manager about your concern? Did they attempt to resolve it? These are the things that should be in the review. Not just simply a rating without explanation. Trust me that owner or manager would like to know what wasn’t right or what was. How do you expect them to improve things if you don’t elaborate? As a business owner myself I value the input of individuals whether it is good or bad so that I can either resolve or improve my service. This is my living/livelihood and negative reviews can have an impact. Be kind and at least give them the opportunity to respond.
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