Do Yelpers get paid?

Answered by Edward Huber

Yelpers do not get paid for their activities on the site. Being a Yelper is completely voluntary and individuals participate because they enjoy sharing their experiences and opinions with others. The motivation behind being a Yelper is typically driven by a passion for exploring and reviewing local businesses, rather than financial compensation.

However, there is a program called Elite Squad on Yelp, where members can become Elite Yelpers. Elite Yelpers are chosen based on their contributions to the Yelp community, such as writing high-quality reviews, engaging with other Yelpers, and attending Yelp events.

While Elite Yelpers do not receive monetary compensation for their reviews or activities, they do enjoy certain perks and privileges. One of these perks is access to Elite-only Yelp events, which are planned by the local community manager and are usually free. These events provide an opportunity for Elite Yelpers to socialize, network, and connect with fellow members of the Yelp community. They may include activities such as food tastings, exclusive restaurant openings, wine tastings, or other local events.

Attending these Elite events can be a lot of fun and they offer a chance to try new and exciting experiences. It’s also a great way to meet like-minded individuals who share a love for exploring and reviewing local businesses. These events can help foster a sense of community among Elite Yelpers and provide a platform for them to share their thoughts and experiences in person.

In addition to the events, Elite Yelpers also receive a badge on their Yelp profile, which distinguishes them as a member of the Elite Squad. This badge can help increase visibility and credibility for their reviews, as it indicates that they have been recognized by Yelp for their contributions to the community.

While Yelpers do not get paid for their activities on the site, the Elite Squad program provides some perks and privileges for Elite Yelpers. However, it’s important to note that the primary motivation for being a Yelper is typically driven by a love for sharing experiences and helping others make informed decisions, rather than financial gain.