With so many ways to connect with consumers, companies need to have a constant presence to be as accessible as possible. Sure, having a great online presence (company website, Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Flickr, etc.) is becoming a necessity, but something that businesses need to be utilizing are location-based services like Foursquare and Facebook Places in their integrated marketing efforts.
These mobile apps, used with Android, Blackberry, and iPhone mobile devices, allow people to connect with their friends by updating where they are and what they are doing. It's like a status update by specifying where your current location is (stores, bars, restaurants, local businesses). Why should companies care? Well, when people check in to a specific location, it is visible to their entire list of friends. The reach with these location-based services is extremely large. More or less, your company is getting free promotion, PR, and word of mouth. If an individual checks in to your local coffee shop and adds the message, "Some friends and I are here to grab a warm cup of coffee, come join us!" This has the potential to bring in more traffic for your business. It also helps that close to 40 million people are using these apps.These apps give the user a sense of accomplishment by awarding them points, virtual badges, titles, and in some cases promotional coupons for every check-in. Facebook Placesgives businesses the opporetunity to donate to a charity every time someone checks in to their location. Personally, I enjoy going to venues in the area and checking in on Foursquare opposed to Facebook Places. The interface is easier to use and has a much more appealing design. Overall, these apps are a great way to be involved with friends in the area and interact with local businesses. Is your company using these amazingly popular location-based services to attract and retain customers?
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