01-13-2017 04:53 PM
My first & top priority in contributions to Local Guides, is to take & add photos of existing local places on Google Maps that haven't got even a single photo of them documented on GoogleMaps. So I have a checklist, on my phone, on which i have outlined names (in random order of significance) of places / locations that i need to take & add photos of them. So when i'm on commute and i happen to pass that location, i just take out my cellphone and try my best to take good photos of the place from different angles. Check! on my list. Also i add photos to places that already have photos which are not satisfying and informative enough. Then, i also strive to add new locations (along with photos) of significant places in my town that (unfortunately) have not been existing on Google Maps to help visitors and other people pre-discover the places on Google Maps. It's my passion to contribute to information "sea" to help other people. I enjoy doing this. Thanks to Google & team for allowing contribution of such valuable information from your users.
01-13-2017 04:56 PM
Hi, I really enjoy editing my local areas... I'm disappointed I can't add new buildings, edit routes etc. I would love to properly add shopping malls (their structure of places) or missing known buildings, but I suppose it's reserved for Google employees (in my area no changes). 😞
Currently I have almost 900 points. Some of them are really big, serious changes; some other - minor things like name or changing coordinates. For sure I have a big contribution to my local area, there were many things to correct. I'm doing what I can, but it's harder now, because most of the data to correct or confirm force me to visit the specific place and check it by myself (like working hours or if it's still operational at all).
My best tip for reviewing: don't spare words. I like to write detailed reviews if I really want to review something and I have some emotions related to particular place.
Best tip for editing: checking randomly particular services; being aware that some places might not be added to the Maps.
01-13-2017 05:00 PM
My biggest tip is to tell your friends about the program! It's stunning how many people DON'T know about the program, how easy it is, or that there are so many perks to participating. Mapping your community is a whole lot easier when you aren't doing it alone 🙂
01-13-2017 05:08 PM
Live photos? that's a great idea. What do you use? An Android or iPhone? How do you do it?
01-13-2017 05:08 PM
I guess it's more of an interest for me. When I enjoy a place, I wish more people would enjoy the same so the business would sustain or grow.
01-13-2017 05:09 PM
I try to hold my elbows next to my body to keep steady. Also, I don't let photo ops get in the way of actually enjoying where I am.
-ellen
01-13-2017 05:13 PM
Enjoy the location and what it has to offer while you are there ! Take pictures and take it in. Write reviews after you have completed your trip not during and pick your best pics to contribute.
01-13-2017 05:16 PM
What I usually do is to take great pictures and share them. You never know who's watching and might get interested.
01-13-2017 05:17 PM
Best practices for being a successful Local Guide:
These are just a few practical tips that have helped me. I hope they could help you as well.
01-13-2017 05:20 PM
Extra photos - When you're out and about, don't just take photos of the place; think about using your shots to provide further info to viewers! The map board, opening hours, and EVERYONE loves a nose at the current menu! This sort of thing is really handy. Make sure text shots are still, light and in focus.
Reviews - Remember, it's very easy to use a review as a personal rant. OK, so you had a terrible steak, or service was slow... Feel free to tell the truth, but remember, everyone has an off day. Ensure that viewers have an unbiased chance to check it out for themselves. People need a second chance (sometimes!) Make sure you mention pros as well as cons. Have fun people 🙂