Google Local Guides: Tips for Earning Points and Badges

Google relies on volunteers known as Local Guides to keep Search and Maps up-to-date with details about local businesses and attractions.

These volunteers submit reviews, photos, and videos that aid users in making informed decisions when exploring new locations.

While their main goal is to assist searchers, Local Guides receive virtual rewards through Google’s program, which encourages participation to maintain accurate Maps data.

Local Guides play a vital role in verifying the accuracy of information submitted by businesses. By participating in the program, individuals can help ensure that the details available on Google Maps and Search are up-to-date and reliable. This verification process contributes to a more accurate representation of businesses and their offerings.

Anyone interested can join the Local Guides program and start contributing reviews, photos, and other content. By doing so, participants not only assist other users in making informed decisions but also earn recognition for their efforts. The program is open to anyone willing to share their experiences and insights about various locations.

The article provides a detailed overview of the Local Guides program. It explains how to join, the types of contributions you can make, and the rewards that come with participating. Whether you’re looking to enhance your local search experience or earn perks for your contributions, this guide covers all you need to know.

 

What Is The Google Local Guide Program?

The Google Local Guide program is designed to motivate users to contribute valuable information to Google Maps and Business Profiles. By participating in the program, users can help improve the accuracy and comprehensiveness of local information available to others.

The program operates like a game, where users earn points for various types of contributions, including writing reviews, uploading photos, and answering questions. As users accumulate points, they advance through different levels and unlock badges that recognize their efforts. 

These badges are displayed next to your name on Google Maps, marking you as a knowledgeable and engaged contributor. This not only enhances your profile but also signals to others that you have valuable insights about the local area. By contributing regularly, you can become a trusted source of information, helping others make informed decisions while also benefiting from the rewards and recognition offered by the program.

 

Points, Levels & Badges

Points can be earned with the following contributions to Google Maps:

• Write a review – 10 points.
  • Write a 200+ character review – 10 bonus points.
• Rate a business – 1 point.
• Upload a photo – 5 points.
• Tag a photo – 3 points.
• Add a caption to a photo – 10 points.
• Upload a video – 7 points.
• Answer – 1 point.
• Respond to Q&As – 3 points.
• Edit information – 5 points.
• Add a place – 15 points.
• Add a road – 15 points.
• Check a fact – 1 point.

You’ll reach higher levels in the Local Guides program as you build up points.

The levels of the local guides program are as follows:

• Level 1 – 0 points.
• Level 2 – 15 points.
• Level 3 – 75 points.
• Level 4 – 250 points.
• Level 5 – 500 points.
• Level 6 – 1,500 points.
• Level 7 – 5,000 points.
• Level 8 – 15,000 points.
• Level 9 – 50,000 points.
• Level 10 – 100,000 points.

At level four and higher, you’ll earn a badge that’s displayed next to your name when it appears in Google Maps.

Google previously offered attractive perks to Local Guides, such as free cloud storage and discounts on apps and media. 

As the Local Guides program grew, Google phased out these benefits and now primarily rewards users with badges for their contributions.

While there are no guaranteed rewards, Google occasionally provides Local Guides with early access to new features.

 

How Local Guides Can Impact SEO

Local search marketing depends on the contributions of Local Guides and their content. 

The reviews, photos, and other user-generated content posted by Local Guides can greatly enhance a business’s visibility and search rankings. 

Businesses can boost their presence by actively engaging with this content, responding to reviews, and interacting with key Local Guides.

Engaging with the Local Guides community can offer useful insights into consumer preferences and help build connections with influential users who can promote the business.

Staying informed about updates to the Local Guides program enables businesses to take advantage of new opportunities.

 

In Summary

Anyone with a Google account can join the Google Local Guides program. To participate, you need to contribute by providing accurate information, posting photos, and writing detailed reviews on Google Maps and Business Profiles.

When you reach level four, Google will add a badge next to your name on your reviews, signalling to others that you are a knowledgeable Local Guide. 

The Local Guides program is Google’s way of recognising those who help keep Google Maps accurate and useful. This recognition can enhance your online visibility and credibility among Google users.