The Yelp Elite Squad is a diverse community of passionate writers, photographers, and adventurers. Every experience you share on Yelp helps people discover the best of everything local. Love discovering hidden gems? Supporting local businesses? Going the extra mile with your photos, reviews, and adventures? Join your local YES! community and discover even more hidden spots in your city.
Back in the early days of Yelp, we noticed some folks went above and beyond sharing reviews and photos—without these voices Yelp wouldn’t be what it is today. Have you spotted anyone with a Yelp Elite badge? It’s our way of recognizing these folks for making a difference and supporting local businesses by sharing their experiences.
Sharing reviews and photos is just the beginning. Joining YES! means being officially recognized as a Yelp Elite on your profile, meeting other locals in the community that share your interests, and scoring exclusive invites to amazing local events and meet-ups. From cocktails on boats to playdates with penguins, there are all kinds of experiences to check out.
Real people. Real reviews.® YES! isn’t just about recognizing folks who share a ton of pictures or write long reviews, it’s also a mark of trust—be sure to brush up your profile! And just keep sharing your reviews, photos, and more and you’ll be well on your way to becoming a Yelp Elite. Whether you’re new to Yelp or a regular, anyone can nominate themselves or others to join.
Use your real name on your profile
Add a real photo of yourself
Nominate yourself and tell us why you want in
Sent your nomination? Sit back, relax, and hopefully you’ll make it! Don’t worry if you don’t get in straight away—keep sharing your experiences, because you can always re-nominate. Note: You must be of legal drinking age in your country to join.
Join the Squad
Nini “ster” J., Yelp Elite since 2017
Can you barely go a week before looking for a new adventure? Food is everything, but it’s not everything. YES! is all about discovery, from great bookstores to top bike shops.
Francesca L., Yelp Elite since 2007
If you love trying out new cuisines and sharing your experiences, the Yelp Elite Squad is where it’s at! Discover more eats with more food lovers around the city.
John H., Yelp Elite since 2016
Okay, so you don’t have to be a pilot to join YES! Loving your community will lead you to your own niche when you connect with the rest of the Squad.
Check out our FAQ page for more or get in touch with your local Community Manager, Benjamin F
CMs are on-the-ground Yelp ambassadors who curate the Local Yelp newsletter and host incredible events for the Yelp community. Want to see what it’s like being a CM? There’s more to it than you’d think!
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