Google Maps is one of the most popular and widely used apps in the world. It makes it easy to get around, discover new places, and share experiences with other users. But did you know you can also help improve Google Maps by becoming a Local Guide ? It's a free, voluntary program that lets you earn points, badges, and rewards based on your contributions.
In this article, we will explain what the Local Guide Program , how to participate in it, and what benefits you can gain from it.
What is the Local Guide Program?
The Local Guide Program is a community initiative launched by Google in 2015. It aims to encourage Google Maps users to share their knowledge and experiences about the places and businesses they visit. In exchange for their contributions, local guides can enjoy numerous exclusive benefits, such as:
- Access new or early access features on Google Maps
- Get discounts or special offers from selected partners
- Participate in events or competitions reserved for Local Guides
- Receive gifts or Google products
- Join a global community of enthusiasts and experts
The Local Guide program is based on a system of points, levels, and badges. The more you contribute to Google Maps, the more points you earn and the higher your level . Each level gives you access to different and more interesting rewards. There are 10 levels in total, from level 1 to level 10.
The contributions you can make to Google Maps are varied and easy to make. These include:
- Leave reviews and ratings for the places you've visited.
- Share photos and videos of your experiences
- Provide detailed information on schedules, services, accessibility, etc.
- Answering other users' questions about a location
- Modify or correct erroneous or outdated information
- Add missing locations or routes to the map
- Create or publish lists of themed places
Each type of contribution earns you a different number of points. For example, a review earns you 10 points, a photo 5 points, a video 7 points, and so on. You can see the details of the points awarded for each contribution on the official Local Guide Program website.
How to participate in the Local guide program?
To participate in the Local Guide Program , you must be at least 18 years old and have a Google account. Then simply follow these steps:
- Open the Google Maps app on your smartphone or tablet
- Select “Contribute” in the bottom right corner of the screen
- Click “Contribute now” to accept the program terms and conditions
- Start contributing to Google Maps by following the suggestions that appear
You can also join the Local Guide Program from your computer by accessing the dedicated website. There you will also find all the useful information about the program, your points, your levels, your badges, and your rewards.
What are the advantages of the Local guide program?
The Local Guide Program offers several advantages to participating users. Here are a few examples:
- You can improve your visibility and credibility on Google Maps by displaying the Local Guide badge next to your username. This badge demonstrates your expertise and commitment to sharing helpful and reliable information with the community. You can also see and report fake reviews circulating online.
- You can access new or early access features on Google Maps , such as the ability to test new versions of the application, create custom lists, participate in surveys, or receive personalized notifications.
- You can get discounts or special offers from some Google partners , such as online magazines, streaming services, booking platforms, or e-commerce sites. For example, you can get a free 3-month subscription to Google One, a 40% discount on the car rental service Rentalcars.com, or unlimited access to The New York Times news site.
- You can participate in events or contests reserved for Local Guides , such as local meetups, workshops, webinars, or challenges. These opportunities allow you to meet other Local Guides, exchange tips, discover new places, or win prizes. For example, you can participate in the annual Connect Live contest, which offers you the chance to visit Google's headquarters in San Francisco and meet the program teams.
- You can receive gifts or Google products depending on your level and activity. For example, you can receive a Local Guide sticker to put on your computer or car, a personalized t-shirt with your name and level, a backpack, or a Google Home Mini speaker.
- You can join a global community of enthusiasts and experts who share your interests. You can connect with them on the program's official forum, on social media, or at local events. You can also learn tips, best practices, and the latest news about Google Maps through the program's newsletters, blogs, and videos.
FAQs about the Local Guide Program
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Local Guide Program and their answers:
How do I know how many points I've won?
You can check your point total by going to the “ Contribute ” section of the Google Maps app or visiting the program website. There you'll also see details of your contributions, your current level, your badge, and your available rewards.
How do I get the Local Guide badge?
You automatically receive the Local Guide badge when you join the program and start contributing to Google Maps . The badge appears next to your username on your reviews, photos, videos, and listings. It also indicates your current level. The badge is visible to all Google Maps users.
How do I level up in the Local Guide Program?
To advance in the Local Guide program , you need to earn enough points by contributing to Google Maps. Each level requires a minimum number of points to reach. For example, to move from level 1 to level 2, you need at least 15 points. To move from level 9 to level 10, you need at least 100,000 points.
How to earn more points in the Local Guide Program?
To earn more points in the Local guide program , you need to contribute regularly and qualitatively to Google Maps.
There are several ways to earn more points in the Local Guide program . For example, you can write reviews longer than 200 characters to earn a 10-point bonus per review. You can also share high-quality photos and videos that showcase the location and its atmosphere. You can also answer questions that Google Maps suggests about places you've visited or know well. Finally, you can add missing locations or routes to the map, earning you 15 points per addition.
You can also take advantage of challenges or events organized by the program to earn extra points . For example, you can participate in the “Write a Review Day” challenge, which invites you to write as many reviews as possible in one day and offers a bonus of 3 points per review. You can also participate in local meetups organized by the Local Guides in your area, which allow you to discover new places and share your impressions with other guides.
Is the Local Guide Program a paid service?
No, the Local Guide Program is completely free. There are no registration or subscription fees. You can participate in the program as much as you like without any obligation or constraint.
Is the Local Guide Programme available in all countries?
Yes, the Local Guide Program is available in all countries where Google Maps is available. You can contribute to Google Maps in the language of your choice, based on your preferences and location.
Does the Local Guide Program respect my privacy?
Yes, the Local Guide program respects your privacy and personal data. You can choose what information you want to share with the Google Maps community, such as your username, profile picture, or contributions. You can also edit or delete your contributions at any time. You can consult the program's privacy policy to learn more !
Conclusion on the Local guide program
The Local Guide program is a free, voluntary program that lets you contribute to Google Maps and receive numerous benefits in return. By becoming a Local Guide, you can improve your visibility and credibility on Google Maps, access new or early access features, get discounts or special offers from select partners, participate in events or contests exclusively for Local Guides, receive gifts or Google products, and join a global community of enthusiasts and experts. To participate in the Local Guide program , all you need is a Google account, to accept the program terms and conditions, and to start contributing to Google Maps by leaving reviews, photos, videos, information, or questions about places you visit or know. The more you contribute, the more points you earn and the higher your level. Each level gives you access to different and more valuable rewards.
If you are interested in the Local Guide Program , don't hesitate to join the program now and share your world with the Google Maps community!
