June 14 2017
If you remember the rage about FourSquare years ago, it's coming back again. But this time, Google is leading the way to create local experts, and Google Maps is the platform. So set up your account on Google Local Guides and get going! If you participate a lot (hit 50 reviews), you will be highlighted as a top reviewer on Google Maps for iOS and Android.
Well, that is only something that you can answer. Like so many other social media strategies, it needs to be something that you enjoy doing. Also, consider this – Google Maps is the most popular mobile maps product on the planet; you and your brand will show up when people are using the map.
Here is something kinda funny, too. A lot of broker websites use the Google Map API to map properties. Imagine if consumers on your competitor's website saw your name next to popular area hotspots surrounding listings. Funny, right? (P.S. If you are worried about this happening on your website, talk to your website vendor. They may need to upgrade you to premium maps).
With Local Guides, you get points for things like writing reviews, validating that a business is still in business, validating their hours of operation, taking photos, adding new places, etc. If you do a really good job, you get badges and can become something like the Mayor of your community.
Local Guides have another feature that allows you to create lists. These can be a very cool way to give a new homeowner the lay of the land around their home. Here's how:
When you share the list with a client, they will be able to add it to their Google Maps and see all of the places you have highlighted on Google Maps. Add your favorite grocery store, dry cleaners, gas station, movie theatre, coffee shop, restaurants and, especially, YOUR OFFICE!
Good Luck – and if you are ever in Arroyo Grande, Calif., I would be happy to share my maps with you!
To view the original article, visit the WAV Group blog.