The Social Media Bible: Tactics, Tools, and Strategies for Business Success, 3rd Edition

Location-Based Social Media

More and more people are turning to their mobile phones for communication and engagement. In fact, 40 percent of social media users access their social media from their mobile phones. With the emerging culture of sharing what is happening right now, location-based social media (LBS) has grown exponentially with 5 percent of social media users with smartphones using LBS services to check in, share their activities, access rewards, and connect with friends.

How It Works

LBS is available as an application (app) from your cell phone provider’s app marketplace. Once installed (and opened by you) the app uses the GPS hardware in your smartphone, and the LBS accesses a list of venues that are nearby. You select the venue you are at and check in. With each check-in, you have the option to say something; why you are there, whom you are with, or what you’d recommend from that place. Generally, you will also have the option to share with your other social networks like Facebook and Twitter.

What’s in It for the User?

LBS users generally enjoy sharing multiple facets of their life, but they primarily do it for the rewards and incentives. When LBS users check in to participating establishments, they are rewarded for giving the business a shout-out and some free publicity. The incentives and rewards can be a few things, like a discount on purchases, a free something like coffee or appetizer (with purchase), or a donation to a cause can be made. These incentives are ...