Google Maps is one of the most popular and widely used applications in the world. It allows you to move around easily, discover new places and share your experiences with other users. But did you know that you can also help improve Google Maps by becoming a Local Guide ? This is a free, voluntary program that allows you to earn points, badges, and rewards based on your contributions.
In this article, we will explain to you what the Local guide program , how to participate in it and what benefits you can get 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 establishments they visit. In exchange for their contributions, local guides can benefit from many exclusive benefits, such as:
- Access new or preview features on Google Maps
- Obtain discounts or special offers from certain partners
- Participate in events or competitions reserved for Local Guides
- Receive Google gifts or 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 you level up . 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 simple to make. These include:
- Leave reviews and ratings on places you've visited
- Share photos and videos of your experiences
- Provide detailed information on schedules, services, accessibility, etc.
- Answer other users' questions about a location
- Change or correct incorrect or obsolete information
- Add missing places or roads to the map
- Create or publish themed place lists
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, etc. You can consult the details of the points awarded for each contribution on the official website of the Local guide program.
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 just follow these steps:
- Open the Google Maps app on your smartphone or tablet
- Select “Contribute” at the bottom right of the screen
- Tap “Contribute Now” to agree to the program terms
- 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. 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 users who participate in it. Here are some 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 useful and reliable information with the community. You can also see fake reviews circulating on the web and report them.
- You can access new or preview features on Google Maps , such as the ability to test new versions of the application, create personalized 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 subscription to Google One for 3 months, a 40% discount on the rental car service Rentalcars.com or unlimited access to the news site The New York Times .
- You can participate in events or competitions reserved for Local Guides , such as local meetings, workshops, webinars or challenges. These opportunities allow you to meet other local guides, exchange advice, discover new places or win gifts. For example, you can participate in the annual Connect Live competition which gives you the chance to visit Google headquarters in San Francisco and meet the program teams.
- You may receive Google gifts or products based on your level and activity. For example, you can receive a Local Guide sticker to stick 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 the same interests as you. You can interact with them on the program's official forum, on social networks or during local events. You can also learn tips, best practices or new features on Google Maps through the program's newsletters, blogs or videos.
FAQ 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 have earned?
You can see how many points you have earned by going to the “ Contribute ” section of the Google Maps app or by visiting the program website. You will also see the details of your contributions, your current level, your badge and your available rewards.
How to get the Local Guide badge?
You automatically earn 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 to level up in the Local guide program?
To level up in the Local guide program , you must 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 must have at least 15 points. To move from level 9 to level 10, you must have 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 must contribute regularly and qualitatively to Google Maps.
There are several tips to earn more points in the Local guide program . For example, you can write reviews longer than 200 characters to get a bonus of 10 points per review. You can also share quality photos and videos, which clearly show the place 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 roads to the map, earning you 15 points per addition.
You can also take advantage of challenges or events organized by the program to earn additional 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 which offers you a bonus of 3 points per review. You can also participate in local meetings organized by Local Guides in your region, which allow you to discover new places and share your impressions with other guides.
Is there a fee for the Local guide program?
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 want without any obligation or constraint.
Is the Local guide program accessible in all countries?
Yes, the Local guide program is accessible 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 photo, or contributions. You can also edit or delete your contributions at any time. You can check the program's privacy policy to learn more !
Conclusion on the Local guide program
The Local guide program is a free and voluntary program that allows you to contribute to Google Maps and benefit from numerous benefits in exchange. By becoming a Local Guide, you can improve your visibility and credibility on Google Maps, access new or preview features, obtain discounts or special offers from certain partners, participate in events or competitions reserved for Locals. Guides, receive gifts or Google products and join a global community of enthusiasts and experts. To participate in the Local guide program , simply have a Google account, accept the program terms and start contributing to Google Maps by leaving reviews, photos, videos, information or questions about places that you visit or know. The more you contribute, the more points you earn and the higher you level up. Each level gives you access to different and more interesting 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!
