Google Local Guides Program: How To Earn Points & Badges via @sejournal, @MattGSouthern

Google depends on volunteers called Local Guides to keep Search and Maps updated with information about local businesses and attractions.

These volunteers contribute reviews, photos, and videos that help you make decisions when visiting a new place.

Though they do it to benefit searchers, Local Guides get virtual rewards from Google’s program, which incentivizes people to help keep Maps current.

Local Guides may also verify info submitted by businesses. Anyone can join and contribute reviews to earn recognition and perks.

This article explains the Local Guide program – how to join, what you do, and the rewards you can earn.

What Is The Google Local Guide Program?

The Google Local Guide program incentivizes users to help improve Google Maps and Business Profiles.

It’s set up like a game where you earn points for contributions that let you advance to higher levels and unlock badges.

Your badge appears next to your name when you write reviews or answer questions on Maps. This identifies you as someone knowledgeable about the local area.

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.

Screenshot from maps.google.com/localguides/, February 2024

Google used to provide nice perks to Local Guides, including free cloud storage and discounts on apps and media.

However, as the Local Guides program expanded, Google discontinued those extras and now only awards badges to recognize user contributions.

Though it doesn’t promise anything, Google may give early access to new features to Local Guides on occasion.

How To Join The Google Local Guides Program

Step One

Screenshot from maps.google.com/localguides, February 2024

Visit the Google Local Guides signup page and click on Get Started.

Step Two

Screenshot from maps.google.com/localguides, February 2024

Enter the name of your city and click on Become a Local Guide.

Step Three

Screenshot from: maps.google.com/localguides/, February 2024

You can start collecting points on Google Maps by contributing content.

Like the one shown above, the dashboard lets you monitor your progress toward reaching the next level.

If you allow Google to access your location history, you’ll get suggestions for places to review based on the spots you’ve visited.

But you don’t need to enable location tracking to be a Local Guide. You can always search for places yourself and add information about them.

How Local Guides Can Impact SEO

Local search marketing relies heavily on Local Guides and the content they contribute.

Reviews, photos, and other user-generated content that Local Guides post about a business can significantly improve its visibility and search rankings.

Businesses can spotlight this content by engaging with it, responding to reviews, and interacting with influential Local Guides.

Additionally, getting involved in the Local Guides community can provide valuable consumer insights and help build relationships with key users who can promote the business.

Keeping up with changes to the Local Guides program allows businesses to capitalize on new opportunities.

In Summary

Anyone with a Google account can sign up to be a Google Local Guide.

All you need to do is make enough contributions by adding accurate information, photos, and thoughtful reviews to Google Maps and Business Profiles.

Once you reach level four, Google will add a badge next to your name on your reviews. This shows other people that you are a knowledgeable Local Guide.

The Local Guides program is Google’s way of thanking people who take the time to keep Google Maps up-to-date and useful.

It’s a nice bonus that can boost your online presence and credibility in the eyes of Google users.

So, if you want recognition for helping improve Google Maps, sign up to be a Local Guide today.

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Featured Image: ViDl Studio/Shutterstock