I was grabbing lunch at Plutos in Santana Row, and checked in with FourSquare. I’ve been checking in to most places I visit with FourSquare, Gowalla and Yelp just to see how these services are evolving and to get ideas for my clients.
When I checked in today, there was a green banner in the upper right corner that said “Special Nearby“. When I clicked on it, it told me about a special at the pub across the street – Rosie McCann’s.
They had a special for half-off any appetizer, and also a free pint for the “Mayor” when he or she checks in. Hey, I want to be the mayor there!
What is Foursquare?
If you are not familiar with FourSquare, this service allows your to “check in” from your phone when you visit a local establishment. The person who has the most check ins for a given place becomes the “mayor.”
People get very excited about being the mayor for their favorite lunch spot or pub. It’s a super cool idea.
Businesses should do more experimenting with this. You don’t even have to advertise with FourSquare – you could just put a sign up in your establishment saying “The Mayor gets a free pint at check in!” and that would do the trick.
What a great way to engage and reward your customers.
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I have been hearing so much about Foursquare but haven’t had a chance to check it out – thanks for the post and the awesome idea!
Hi Don,
I like how you suggested businesses “experiment” with Foursquare. I think some marketers are overhyping it big time. You could ask 1,000 people in a row what Foursquare is and chances are most will have no idea. It’s still very niche yet its getting mass media coverage. I would spend more time with Yelp at this point until Foursquare reaches the masses.
It is probably a good idea for business to claim their venue and “experiment” with a promotion however.
Good article. Simple, informative
Thanks Eileen!
Kevin – agreed. The value is a little questionable right now, but it’s good to follow what is happening. And now Facebook is allowing checkins with their Places Pages. It will be interesting to see how this develops.
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