Foursquare: Social Gaming and Local Advertising Revolution

UPDATE: July 2011 Foursquare has now passed 10 Million users. The revolution has begun

When I first heard about Foursquare several months ago I thought it was a little silly to be announcing to my social circle everywhere I was, not to mention a little less than secure. When I finally got around to visiting the Foursquare website I explored the benefits to local businesses who participate and was very impressed.

Foursquare is an online social gaming website that is gaining popularity VERY quickly. Essentially users using their cell phones check in at “venues” around town throughout the course of their day. Check ins earn you points and badges. The highest prestige to be made mayor of a venue. The mayor of any particular venue is the person who has checked in the most in the last 60 days.

Local advertisers can offer special discounts or other types of offers to users who check in. Additional visits or check ins within a 30-60 day window can earn you higher level discounts from the venue. Mayors can also earn an exclusive offer from the business. Advertisers have a strong incentive to offer a special discount to people who check in since the check in process notifies all of the users Facebook & Twitter friends. This serves to socially spread the word!

Last week I did an interview with Andrew James. He questioned me about how businesses can utilize Foursquare as a marketing tool.

Listen to the Interview Here: Foursquare Interview With Andrew James

Jacob S Paulsen