I really like Foursquare and its many great benefits for businesses that get on early and use it to its full effectiveness. It really can be used by about any business that wants to have engagement with its clientèle from a tanning salon to an insurance company and not to mention the restaurant.

But, as an avid user what can you do to make Foursquare better for yourself and others that will frequent your favorite places. I was down in Indy earlier this year for BarCampIndiana speaking to agents and other mortgage professionals, and afterwards me and a couple of friends popped over to St. Elmo’s Steakhouse in windy cold downtown Indy. I checked in as I normally do and up pops this little nugget for me.

Well, little did he know that was the reason I went there, but if I didn’t I am pretty sure I would have based on his recommendation. Seriously, as great as a steak place St. Elmo’s is. I may not have tried the shrimp, but the shrimp cocktail is what they are famous for . But, what at your favorite place to do you like to eat or maybe even avoid. Like at Dr. Dough Pizza in Plano, IL try the Mac ‘N Cheese pizza, that type of pizza may not be in your wheelhouse, but wow it will blow the top of your head off it is so good.

tell your friends about:

• a certain drink
• maybe something that is not on the menu
• or to ask for a certain person on the wait staff

Really, the possibilities are seemingly endless. Yes, you can even leave a negative review, and maybe the owner or management can help right that wrong for you.

Now, here is the other side of the coin, what not to leave and really it is pretty simple. Your check-in should not be a commercial for you or your business. If you are a brand don’t invade someone else’s brand to promote you or your website. You really will come off looking like a pathetic loser. You really should add some value. I would assume that you are checking in to your favorite places and you want them to stay in business. Think about it, the tip is about the Venue and not about you. If people are truly interested in knowing more the person that checks-in to a certain pizza place, that is what your profile is about.

I just saw a couple great examples of what not to do and I blotted out the name to protect the inconsiderate.

So, leave a good honest “tip” for the venues you frequent. You just may be rewarded!

Dave

Oh, and if you want to be friend on Foursquare, feel free to friend me up