Every form of social media challenges its audience to define the boundaries of privacy. How much of myself should I reveal and to whom? Foursquare, without a doubt, pushes this envelope.
So what, prey tell, is this thing called Foursquare?
Well, in a nutshell it is an application used by your cell phone to track your physical location using GPS so your social media friends know where you are. From one extreme perspective it’s like having your very own personal stalker that follows you everywhere you go and tells everyone where you are.
A bit too close for comfort? I hear ya.
But…just humor me momentarily, and consider it from a different point of view.
As a networking tool it’s quite innovative. By sharing where I am and leaving feedback I’m able to promote the businesses I want to support. For example, if all of my social media connections see that I’m eating for the fourth time at a local restaurant, they’ll know I think the food is fabulous and likely want to try it for themselves.
Consider it from a marketing perspective. If you own that local restaurant, wouldn’t you want your patrons to be able to broadcast their whereabouts when they’re eating with you? Absolutely! Plus, you can take your marketing further. Business owners can offer incentives to Foursquare users who visit their establishments. It’s guaranteed traffic- providing your incentives are enticing enough.
Foursquare has many other marketing benefits as well as features that set it apart from its competitors, such as Facebook Places. For example, businesses without physical locations can use it effectively and put themselves on the map with helpful tips and information for consumers.
So, there you have it. Foursquare is an innovative marketing tool. It’s great for networking, and it’s a practical tool for making sure your friends can find you on a Friday night. The question yet remains…what if you don’t want to be found? Simple…turn it off.
You can find out more at www.foursquare.com.
Submitted by Frances Leary of Wired Flare www.wiredflare.ca
