I never contribute to Google Maps for points or badges. Don’t get me wrong. I’m not looking down on them at all, but for me, points and badges were always the consequence of our activity as a Local Guide and not the primary purpose. So, why was I so happy to become a Trailblazer Master this month?
First, because I really love to be useful, it means that I’ve been helping a lot of businesses, especially the small ones, by adding them to Google Maps, uploading photos and writing reviews. I’m also assisting the Google Maps users in finding big deals close to their homes. It makes a significant social and economic impact on my community.
Another point: it also represented a personal challenge, once it demanded a significant effort. There are three requirements: you have to add at least 50 approved places, add the first photos of 50 locations, and write the first review of 50 of it.
I had reached out to the two first requirements some time ago, but writing the first reviews took me a while. It happened because I always check if a small business is on Google Maps, and if not, I add it. I still use the “Uncover missing info” to discover places near me that need info on Maps. If it’s missing a photo, I visit it and upload it at least a good one.
However, I do not review a business if I’ve never bought something there or if I’ve never used their service. For example, recently, a small tire shop was opened in my neighborhood, I added it to Google Maps, and uploaded some photos. If, in the future, I needed their services, I’ll be glad to add a review. For now, I’m pleasured to have contributed by adding them to Maps.
It is my first post on the achievements section because I felt that I wouldn’t have to celebrate alone that now I’m a proud Master Trailblazer.
And you? What is the badge that are you more proud to hold, and why? Feel free to share in the comments below.
