Foursquare is a location-based platform that allows users to “check-in” at different locations throughout the world. Friends share their locations with each other and collect virtual points and badges along the way. When a user has visited a venue more than anyone else, he or she is given the title of “Mayor.” For these loyal patrons, businesses sometimes offer deals and discounts.
This location-based application has grown immensely over the years. Founded in 2009, Foursquare currently has over 6.5 million users worldwide, making it one of the fastest growing applications to date.
Sure, it’s fun to share your location with your friends, but as a business, have you “checked-in” with your customers?
To stay current with industry trends, your business needs to be informed of Foursquare’s capabilities. It gives you the opportunity to “oust” the competition. According to a recent press release, Foursquare 3.0 presents new types of “specials,” including offers for “swarms, groups of friends, regulars, newbies and mayors – to allow businesses to reward their loyal customers and entice new ones.” Now, there are more opportunities than ever for your business to capitalize on this location-based platform.
Foursquare offers vary by business, but they are always appealing to customers. For example, bars often offer drink specials, restaurants give free appetizers and gas stations offer free fountain drinks, simply for checking-in. From a business perspective, Foursquare deals are a great way to raise awareness, build customer loyalty and increase repeat sales.
Posting specials is one way to build your Foursquare presence, but listening to your customers is another very important reason to get engaged. Users can post “tips,” or short messages, at locations they visit. If someone had a bad experience at your restaurant, he or she can leave tips like, “Service was slow and food was cold. Go to a different location!” With Foursquare, you can address customer issues and resolve the problem before your reputation gets tarnished.
Although Foursquare is only a couple years old, watch for it to increase in popularity in the future. If you own a business, make sure to “check-in” to Foursquare.