Are You On Foursquare?

The mayor is in the house! You’ve earned a new badge! Here’s a popular tip!

Image credit: http://www.aim.org

If you are unfamiliar with Foursquare, the location-based social networking site, then you may not know what any of the above means. But you will! Because you should!

Foursquare Basics

1.) It’s an app! Foursquare is an application on smart phones that is free to download. It taps into your phone’s GPS and shows you a list of businesses, places, or general locations in your area.

2.) Checking in. Choose the location you are visiting and the app will check you in to that place, allowing you to include a status about what you are doing as well as pictures you would like to attach.

3.) Mayors. The person who has checked into a certain place the most number of times is automatically the mayor of that location. Anyone can be the mayor!

4.) Points/ Badges. Points and badges can be achieved for several reasons and are used to encourage you to frequently use Foursquare. Certain first time check-ins at movie theaters or radio stations will earn you more points which can eventually lead to business perks!

5.) Tips. After each check-in a tip or comment from a Foursquare user who previously checked in to that location will appear. It’s common to see food recommendations if you are checking in to a restaurant.

Benefits of Foursquare for Your Event or Business

1.) Free Promotion. By claiming your location or business on Foursquare you can post on its behalf. You will also receive window clings and decals to let your attendees or customers know that you are on Foursquare and that they should check-in! The check-in will show to all of their Foursquare friends and spread awareness of you.

2.) Customer Loyalty. Creating coupons and rewards based on recurring check-ins rewards loyal customers and encourages new customers to continue to check-in spreading the word of your business. Examples listed include a free drink for a first time check-in or 10% off on the third. This can also include the creation of badges and moral boosters.

3.) Demographics. If you claim your business on Foursquare, the website will send you emails detailing who is typically checking in at your location. This should help you narrow down your target demographic or audience and better tailor your marketing or advertising.

Google “Foursquare business benefits” and you’ll find tons of great articles like this will helpful tips.

Now, get on Foursquare and claim your listing. Your business or event will thank you for it!