Why I'm a Google Local Guide (And Everyone Should Be!) đź“Ť

Google Maps tips & tricks
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Google Local Guides
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We all rely on online reviews to help us decide where to eat, shop, and explore. This is why a program like Google Local Guides is so clutch for do-gooders like us. While platforms like Yelp have been around for ages, I’ve found a special satisfaction, and fun perks, in being a Google Local Guide. Here’s why I think it’s the best gig in town:

More Than Just Reviews: It’s About Community :world_map:

With Yelp, you’re primarily writing reviews. But as a Local Guide, you’re doing so much more! You’re adding photos :camera_with_flash:, answering questions about businesses, checking facts, and even contributing to Google Maps itself. It feels less like just “reviewing” and more like actively helping people navigate and discover their world.

Your contributions directly improve the accuracy and richness of Google Maps, which millions of people use daily. Plus, Google Maps feels more comprehensive with less room for negativity and bias. Less Yelping, more Helping.

Gamification & Perks! :sparkles:

Let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a little gamification? Google Local Guides has a fantastic leveling system. As you contribute more, you earn points and level up, unlocking new badges and even early access to Google features.

I’ve gotten my socks, discounts, and have even attended in-person events! While Yelp has its “Elite” program, the Local Guide perks feel more integrated and accessible for everyone. It’s not just about getting freebies, but about the recognition that your contributions are truly valued.

Impact and Visibility :rocket:

Think about how often you use Google Search or Google Maps. Your reviews and photos as a Local Guide have the potential to be seen by way more people than on other platforms. Helping people find a place to eat, accessible restrooms, pet-friendly bars, and more gives me all the motivation I need to keep contributing.

This means your helpful insights can reach a broader audience, making a bigger impact on local businesses and fellow explorers.
So next time you’re out and about, consider sharing your experience as a Google Local Guide. You’ll be helping others and getting some cool benefits along the way!

Happy guiding! :blush:

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@JordanBurleson When I started in 2017, I considered reviews as a hobby, something to take me away from the world of work and adult problems. Over time and with the resources, I improved my reviews and photos even more.

Today, in addition to seeing it as a hobby that I dedicate myself to and improve every day, I also see it as a task to help my community and the community of so many other people, especially solo travelers, who need adequate and accurate information during their visits.

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You are amazing :star_struck: @GasparKaren!

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Wonderful post @JordanBurleson !!!

When I looked back and questioned myself why I am Local Guide now, it started with a very silly reason. One of our trip somewhere in another State, hubby showed me that his photo got viewed hundreds time in just one day. I loved taking photos and I would like to have a way that my photos got a good use for others, I am not a professional photographer so there is NO way to sell my photos, lol and being a jealous wife, competition???, I asked how he did it. That was the beginning to the never end contributions to Google Maps. I also like making friends from all over the world with hope one day I will be able to visit them.

I believe every each of us have story and reason to tell. I would love to hear from others as well.

Enjoy your weekend, Jordan. It was a so nice meeting you in person and the bike ride was fantastic!

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Hello @JordanBurleson and thank you for this inspiring post!

When I participated in the Connect Live 2019 applications, one of the questions was why are you Local Guide?

For me it’s 4 axes:

Helping: It’s a simple opportunity to help people find the best local places easily and quickly.

Sharing: Exchanging experiences with other passionate local guides. On Connect or in the real world.

Discovery: I’m lucky to travel a lot, and when I’m in a foreign city I can easily discover places I’d never have known.

Travel: The Google Maps experience when you traveling is really top-notch. There are connections with transport (bus, train), the best and most rated places. You can plan your trip in advance with lists.

As for gamification, I agree with you. It’s quite addictive to try to achieve as many points as possible in a day, or to see the views of our photos that certain places have, or to be placed as the first photo of a place.

As far as perks go, you’ve received socks, discounts and participated in events in person.

I’m lucky to take part in Connect Live 2019 and also represent local guides at Google’s headquarters in Switzerland during a press conference in 2020 but since then nothing.

I find it’s very random how perks are given. Some receive socks, others pins and others events and others nothing.

For example, I discovered the latest Connect Live in New York by local guides I follow on social networks. I found no official communication from Google (or else I missed something.)

I was really happy for the many local guides I met at Connect Live 2019 but it’s quite frustrating not to know the conditions of participation in such events.

The impact is really interesting! I remember a friend visiting Barcelona who said he’d chosen this bar because 2 years earlier I’d taken note of it.

Thank you so much for this post!

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Nice Post @JordanBurleson

I become Local Guides because I enjoy helping others discover good places or avoid bad experiences, want spontaneously to contribute to our local community.

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I love seeing and reading your Local Guide stories @GasparKaren and @Erna_LaBeau !!!

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I love your thorough write-up @christophesubilia. In the earlier days the gamification and reward were a little more visible and available to all. I foresee things like events and perks will be advertised better in the future now.

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Thank you @JordanBurleson ! I hope so :blush:

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@JordanBurleson Thank you so much!

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Thank you!

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What a fantastic post! @JordanBurleson
I completely resonate with everything you’ve said about being a Local Guide. For me, it’s not just about earning points or badges, though those are nice perks. It’s truly about the impact. I love knowing that my small contributions – a photo, a review, a quick answer – can help someone discover a hidden gem, avoid a bad experience, or navigate their day a little easier. It feels good to be part of such a helpful community!
Keep up the great work!

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I haven’t lived this way, so it took me a while to fully appreciate what I was involved in as a Local Guide @JordanBurleson. But I do enjoy it, and would find it hard to stop now.

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