I got to know about Google local guide program in mid 2016. I hardly contributed to map around that time. I just thought it was like another travel info for tourists. I randomly used Google map for exploring new places and to try new restaurant.
When I discovered the potential of Map as a platform to contribute.
It was in 2017 i delivered my kid, i was worried about my travel. Thats when I understood the potential of maps. Whenever i wanted to travel, I looked it into the map, read reviews and then planned my travel. This helped me a lot when i travelled with my daughter to Singapore. Moving around Singapore was just breeze. I could locate MRT station, hop in to metro and travel. Even i could time my visit and had my time of life .
Once I was back i started actively contributing to the maps, I made a point my reviews should be useful to others; like by adding whether its kid friendly, time needed to spend, entry fees, whether snacks are available. These may be minor things, but as a mother I knew it will help lot of parents to plan when planning to visit the place.
Caption: Screenshot of review of Planet Earth aquarium
Become self satisfied with my contribution
I would not deny the feeling of being elated when i received mail from Google
By knowing your reviews has more views means a lot to me. Many people who have viewed may have been benefited. This has been reflected by the likes of reviews.
Being helpful to local business
Once I started actively contributing to map, I realised there are many places not listed on map. By adding new places like a tailor shop, it will definitely benefit small local business, by increasing the customer places
It has become my passion to contribute to map. Even it makes small difference to others ,it will be worth of my effort contributing to the map.