Foursquare is a social networking service that is based on user location. After registering to create an account users may download an application to their mobile device. Using that application users can connect to other users by sharing their location to the network.
Twitter just announced that Foursquare is implementing tools and features that will go after local business with their new content section. Millions of people are logging on to Foursquare everyday in search for their favorite hot spots, to find local restaurants and even to share their activities with their friends and family.
The new Foursquare for Business campaign (see foursquare.com/business) offers a compelling lure to businesses large or small. With its separate sections dedicated to brands and venue owners it is proving to be a useful tool for consumers.
Business Owners
At the Foursquare site business owners are given guidance on how to create special offers, coupons and even how to lay claim to their Foursquare page. Business owners receive several innovative tools that help track their special offers and redemptions, how to attract customers and boost sales.
Users can unlock specials after completing the steps necessary that are listed on the business page. Users will gain points by visiting pages, sharing pages and by following other guidelines given on each business site. Redemption codes and instructions are given so that all employees understand how the campaign works and how to implement it on the sale.
Brands
The new area designated for brands is where business owners can earn their Foursquare partner badge, learn to create their Foursquare page and gain valuable tips on how to generate more business. Much like Twitter’s recent upgrade, Foursquare’s upgrade includes content that is targeted towards business and business owners.
To add depth to the business owner’s pages, Foursquare upgrades the business/venue pages allowing owners to create new URL’s and better description fields. Foursquare’s hopes is that their new tools and features will create a new way to do business online with sharing and searchable content that is similar to the social networks, just this time geared more towards business.
