Google has launched a new program dubbed as Google City Experts which hopes to encourage more superb-quality ratings in the local business and Google + reviews.

At the moment, the program is limited to some pre-selected cities in Japan, Australia, the U.K and the U.S. It promises to reward users that have authored at least 50 reviews to date and also those that have produced at least five timely reviews for every month.

Those who are able to meet the review guidelines will be awarded with perks such as exclusive entry to local events, free items under the brand name of Google, and special online citation honouring the good work they have done. Moreover, review participants will get monthly newsletters that include a wide array of offers. Lastly, they can receive alerts on local contests and events that they can participate in.

Google City Experts shall have the privilege to receive exclusive invitation to the Google+ Community where they can get to know other Experts in their area and discuss some useful tips and tricks with the use of Google Maps and Google+ Local.

The initially required 50 reviews can apply to those members that have already left in the past. It also applies to those who have just signed up. To keep their membership active, reviewers, dubbed as City Experts, are required to create per month at least five good reviews. A good review is described as something that is well-written and supported by appropriate photos.

The review requirements are set for the purpose of guarding it against spammers and those who would be writing their reviews just because they want to get an incentive. A quality review should be made up of a minimum three to four sentences. It should be helpful and balanced, avoiding insincere and exaggerated praising. In addition, customers should refrain from posting negative reviews as a way to vent out their anger or to attack anyone including the program’s business competitors.