By Jamie Banks
Key Takeaways:
Google support staff are more likely to assist you if they recognize and trust your profile.
Becoming a Google Local Guide earns you points and Google perks, boosting your credibility.
Making regular edits to Google Maps helps establish your authority.
Contributing to Google Help Forums can lead to becoming a Google Top Contributor, further elevating your personal brand.
When it comes to SEO, trust is everything. It’s what drives rankings, and it’s what makes or breaks your reputation. In business, as in life, building trust means you’re laying the foundation for credibility and authority. With Google, this concept is especially true.
"If you want to work smarter, not harder, Google needs to trust YOU, not just your website."
Building your credibility with Google isn’t just an optional nice-to-have; it’s a game changer. Here’s why:
Faster Resolutions: Google support is more responsive to trusted accounts. Want to resolve an issue quicker? Start with trust.
Spam Management: Got fake reviews? Spam listings? Google is more likely to act if you’re seen as credible.
Smoother Edits: Want to edit your Google Business Profile or Maps listings without hassle? A trusted account gets approvals faster.
Career Boost: You could slap “Google Top Contributor” on your business card, and doors will open for you. More speaking gigs, more credibility, bigger clients.
So, how do you start building this personal authority with Google?
1. Become a Google Local Guide
The easiest way to get on Google's radar is by becoming a Google Local Guide. As a Local Guide, you're sharing reviews, photos, and tips about businesses and locations. And here’s the kicker—Google rewards you with points that can unlock perks like early access to new features.
"Google Local Guides unlock Google perks like access to new features as they earn points."
You can sign up at maps.google.com/localguides. The more reviews and images you upload, the more points you earn. The ultimate goal? Hitting Level 4, where you’ll be rewarded with a Local Guides badge that signals your authority. Derek Walter, a tech writer, put it best:
"Be sure to turn on Google Photos and enable Location History in Maps. You'll start to see some rather cool (yet slightly creepy) integration of your photos everywhere you’ve been with your phone."
2. Make Regular Google Maps Edits
Ever notice incorrect info on Google Maps? You’d be surprised how often listings are wrong—everything from misspelled street names to closed-down businesses still showing up. By making regular edits to these listings, you’re not only helping Google users, but you’re also signaling to Google that you’re trustworthy.
"Making regular corrections to business listings improves their accuracy and boosts your credibility."
Once Google sees you consistently making legitimate edits, it’s easier for them to trust your future suggestions. To get started, click Menu > Send Feedback > Edit the Map whenever you spot an error.
3. Contribute to Google Help Forums
The fastest way to become a Google Top Contributor is by helping others in the Google Help Forums. Here, you answer user questions about Google products. Think of it as a two-way street: you help Google users, and in return, you build your reputation with the search giant.
Google looks for a few key things before inviting someone to become a Top Contributor, including:
Being active on the forums for at least four months.
Consistently providing clear, detailed, and friendly responses.
Having in-depth knowledge of Google products.
"When contributing to Google Help Forums, display patience, be friendly, and maintain a positive attitude."
4. Be Active in Your Industry
Building credibility doesn’t stop with Google. Being an active member in relevant industry associations can also boost your standing with the search engine. Google often cross-checks listings with industry groups to verify legitimacy.
If you’re in digital marketing, consider joining associations like The American Marketing Association or IAB. Being associated with recognized organizations adds another layer of credibility.
In a digital world where visibility is everything, GMB Fox ensures your business isn’t just online—it’s the first choice customers make. Let us handle the complexities of digital marketing, so you can focus on what truly matters: growing your business.
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