So I was introduced to something called Four Square at blog world this year. At first I was hesitant at the concept of yet another social media network, but then after I tried it (much like Twitter) got instantly addicted. Which leaves me with the question, do they put MSG in these social networks? Is this the way to win fans in the new media age? Well if so, its working.

What is four square? For those of you, who don’t know, its a very basic concept but where they got the name is beyond me. You use it on your phone or PDA, then when you go out to places you ‘check in’ on four square by letting the GPS in your mobile phone locate you. If this business or place has an account with four square or someone else has added them, they show up & you proceed to check in. The “check in” lets you link to Facebook or Twitter so you can alert all your other friends on the different networks what you are up to.

Its kind of like what Twitter was intended to be, you can share with others where you are at or leave notes for others who check in at said place like “try their draft beer, yum”. Its also the PERFECT storm for stalkers… so if you have a stalker, abstain from four square. But if you don’t use it, love it & share it. Whether you have a business or are just trying to ‘brand’ yourself it helps keep you in the thoughts & on the social media screens of your followers, friends and fans. More publicity = good thing.

It helps businesses as well in a type of guerrilla marketing way as well. If you check in enough at various places you haunt throughout your world you can become ‘Mayor’, smart businesses with an eye for guerrilla marketing realize the goldmine here. Places from bars to car washes are allowing people that become “mayors” of their establishment on four square privileges and freebies. The ROI on this is great because if you are in a town that uses four square often you will have people competing to win “mayor” of your place & get the free goodies.

I am also doing lots of research on how to best use Tweet ups & Four square together so I’ll keep you posted. You can add people as friends on Four Square as well so there is just one more way to connect.

If you want to stalk me on four square i’d be honored: http://foursquare.com/user/marenkate

If you want to stalk me on Twitter i’ll be thrilled: http://twitter.com/marenkate

If you want to stalk me in real life… eeeh, i’ll probably be scared & mace you.