We’ve gotten used to sharing ‘who’ we are on Facebook, the next step in social networking (and marketing!) is ‘where’ we are.
You’ve probably been seeing your Facebook friends over the last several weeks update their status as “checking in.” This is Foursquare in action, the latest cutting-edge social media application that combines digital, mobile distribution of data with the real-world physical locations of its users. It’s a social networking site — and mobile app — that tells your friends where you are and allows you to share tips like, “try the ’07 Syrah.”
Updating your status on Foursquare, called “checking-in,” allows your friends to find you and also find out what you like and recommend. You can check-in from parks, bars, museums, restaurants… really anywhere. The app is also a fun game where you can earn badges, points and even become the “mayor” of an establishment by being a frequent customer.
As a winery or restaurant, one way to get the most out of Foursquare is to let your customers know that you’re participating. You may offer a discount or freebie to frequent check ins or the first check in of the weekend.
Facebook will also be adding location specific functionality later this month, creating a huge impact for local businesses.
















