2022
Editor’s note: Connect Live applications are now closed as of 8:00 pm GMT on March 30.
Submitting a complete Connect Live 2020 application requires a one-minute YouTube video, a Connect post, and a Google Maps List, as well as answering two open-ended questions within the application itself. Submitting a great application takes effort, but it should not feel unachievable or intimidating. Just like the Local Guides program itself, the Connect Live application is meant to be fun. We asked Local Guides who were previously selected to attend a flagship event for their application advice and here’s what they had to say.
Focus on your passion
“Focus on one area of Google Maps or Connect contributions that you are passionate about. If tagging dishes is your favorite, showcase a unique way you contribute or share a funny/cool story related to your experience. If you add emojis to reviews to show wheelchair accessibility or you showcase photos of accessible seating in restaurants, talk about it. Show your creativity and your skills. From art to music or dance, show how your passions intersect with your life on Google Maps.” - Jordan Burleson (@JordanSB), Connect Live 2018-2019
Follow the rules
“Follow the rules. It seems simple, but sometimes Local Guides are tempted to show a different version of themselves or go off topic from the specific question being asked. I’m not discouraging you from being creative. If you have incredible video editing skills or if you are a master of text and can write an interesting post, go on, but don’t forget to answer directly! Be sure to follow the format. You’re asked to record a 1-minute video, so remember that 1 minute is 60 seconds and not 65 seconds or 70 seconds.” - Alexandre Campbell (@AlexandreCampbell), Connect Live 2019
Be authentic
“Google values people from every culture, race, religion and ethnicity. They care about finding out about who you are—your likes, dislikes, and passions. They value your opinion and they want to get to know you, so let them. Just be who you are. At the end of the day, that is your superpower!” - Justine Edwards (@JustineE), Connect Live 2019
Think about your audience
“Place yourself in the shoes of someone who may be coming across your content and wondering what it means to be a Local Guide—from a content perspective on Google Maps to answering the application questions. From that perspective, I've found it is much easier to express myself and speak about my program experiences rather than viewing the application as intimidating.” - Steve Pierre (@SP31), Local Guides Summit 2017, Connect Live 2018-2019
Be organized and consistent
“Approach the application in an organized manner. I try to share a consistent message in the Connect post, 1-minute video, and application form; tell a cohesive story (don't repeat information if it's not worth repeating); and tailor information about myself to the appropriate areas. The Connect post and form are where applicants can go into detail about their achievements and passions. Applicants should include photos, videos and links that highlight their contributions. The video is where Local Guides need to focus less on details (since there's a time limit) and more on personality. It is a video after all!
“Be the best version of yourself! Don't lie, don't exaggerate, don't fake it .. but also don't be too humble! Make sure your body language is positive; stand/sit up straight, don't cross your arms, speak clearly, smile, use your clothes to visually describe your character, pick a good background, and make sure there's proper lighting. I don't think Googlers pay specific attention to all these things, but subconsciously, they might be able to appreciate your video better and see your personality shine through more effectively. And hopefully, your video will be memorable.” - Adrian Lunsong (@AdrianLunsong), Local Guides Summit 2016-2017, Connect Live 2018-2019
Focus on quality over quantity
“If you have a passion for being a Local Guide, that will reflect in the quality of your contributions in a positive way. Quality over quantity is the key. Trying to boost points and levels with low-quality content will only result in a bad experience for people who use Google Maps while exploring.” - Joel Sewing (@Joel_S), Connect Live 2019
Have fun
“You should show your joy and have fun with the application. In the end, it must be fun!” - Luigi Zurolo (@LuigiZ), Connect Live 2019
Do you want to learn more about what the event is like from those who have attended? Alumni of the Local Guides Summit and Connect Live are designated with special profile badges on Connect. If you feel encouraged and prepared after reading this post or talking with others, apply here by 11:59 pm GMT on March 30, 2020!
Editor’s Note: Quotes were edited for length and clarity.
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