30 June,2010 09:04 AM IST | | Shree Lahiri
Social networking site Foursquare can get you discounts at eateries, clubs
There are networking sites, and then there are networking sites.
Foursquare is a networking site with a unique idea behind it. "Foursquare is a location-based social networking site and exists across the world," said Sahil Khan (21), one of the founder members of the group along with Nikhil Kumar Vermau00a0 (24) and Shrinath (28).
Technology lovers
"Foursquare is basically meant to promote venues, user loyalty pattern and then enhance business," said Nikhil, a product manager with an IT start-up. "We love technology and use social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter. People, including celebs, are on Twitter these days."
Foursquare aims to get more people and venues to join them. "This way both benefit ufffd the customers get discounts, it's CRM like," said Nikhil. "The customers also become brand ambassadors for the restaurants." But the fact is, they have a lot of fun whenever they meet.
How it works
Explaining what this group is into, Nikhil said, "They are linked by the net. For instance, if I'm going to a popular restaurant, I log on to the site and publish it on Twitter or Facebook timeline, so that others come to know about it. So when I sign in, I also check who else will be coming there, and can meet them as well."
It's all about getting people to a venue where people get discounts at restaurants and clubs besides having a ball, and the venue benefits too, by increasing footfalls. It's a win-win situation for all.
"Foursquare users get points for checking into places and the person who checks in maximum number of times, becomes the Mayor of that venue!" explained Sahil. "Badges are also given like the Adventurer badge or Swarm badge (if 50 people check into the same venue)."
Sahil said that the last time they organised a meet at a popular lounge bar, more than 50 people checked in, and they got a Swarm badge. "We also set up a computer at the entrance, so that people could join up. We got discounts on entry and shots as well," said Sahil.
Foursquare Day
April 16 was celebrated as Foursquare Day.
This group meets at different venues regularly. Nikhil said, "On April 16, Foursquare Day, we met at a popular lounge bar. And now, we are planning a meet-up soon, but we have not fixed the venue yet."
For more details, or if you want to join Foursquare, log on to www.foursquare.com. Or, you can call Sahil Khan on 9730028558.
