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FourSquare Day – Businesses, Take Note!

Cities around the world are participating in FourSquare Day and I am proud to say that my town of North Andover, Massachusetts is representing Massachusetts on FourSquare Day which takes place on Friday, April 16th. (Boston is listed as well but it's a mere meetup at one place in an attempt to gain the "Swarm" Badge) According to the official press release,

Each hour, a business will roll out the red carpet for Foursquare users that checkin. The day will start at 9:00 a.m. at Perfecto’s Caffe, and will wind its way around North Andover at various shops, salons and restaurants.

This day is not only for local businesses and residents alike, but also serves as a great example of how businesses can utilize this service to not only connect with their customers, but draw in new ones while providing incentive for all. FourSquare is making it easier for businesses to gain insight on the demographics of those who frequent their establishments as well as offer a fun way to interact with them. For those of you who are not sure what FourSquare is or just "don't get it", Paul Boulanger has created an "Intro to FourSquare".

Currently FourSquare is available on Blackberry, iPhone and Android devices. I personally am a bit addicted as it's always fun to gain more badges, become "Mayor" of your favorite businesses as well as see what your friends are up to. If more businesses can do what the ones in North Andover will be doing on FourSquare day, the world will certainly be a better place and customers will be happier people. Here are some of the examples of the kind of discounts local businesses are offering for FourSquare users.

If you and your business are not yet on FourSquare, you may want to reconsider. This mobile tool is growing by the minute and missing out is just downright silly. Foursquare's stats are impressive. The company claims the following since its launch: More than 725,000 users have checked-in over 22 million times to almost 2 million places. Only 1,400 are reportedly offering FourSquare specials but that number is rising by the day as owners become more aware of the value. Looking forward to seeing how this grows and hope to see many of you Massachusetts/New Hampshire folks out on FourSquare Day!