Using Facebook Places to Increase Your Business

After months of rumors and hearsay, Facebook has finally come up with an answer to the location game that other companies like Foursquare have been dominating. The location-based check-in application called Facebook Places will enable customers to use their iPhone or other smart phone to see a map. On that map will be businesses and a list of their Facebook friends who are either at those locations or have been there recently.

For businesses, it is crucial that they claim their part in Facebook Places. By doing so, that business will have control of their profile image on Facebook Places. The physical address, hours of operation, contact information and profile images. We have some tips on how best to claim your Facebook Places. How to setup your business image to take full advantage of this popular location application.

1. Verify Your Business with Facebook Places

One of the first things you want to do is verify with Facebook Places that you are the owner, manager, or business representative for this location. Login into your Facebook account and find the Facebook Places application. Find your location on Facebook Places and then click the link that asks you "Is this your business?"

2. Claim Your Location with Facebook Places

The Facebook Places application will have you complete an online form to verify your location and verify your location. Once this has been completed, you will need to access the Facebook Places application by using your iPhone or smart phone. Once you have accessed the Facebook Places application you need to "check in" and then click the "add" button and add your business name to the location. There will be a place for you to add a description of your business as well.

3. Get the Party Started with Facebook Places

Now that you have gotten your location on Facebook Places and have described your business, its time to start telling your friends. Click the "check in" button at your location and start sharing your visit with your Facebook friends, customers and everyone else who will find your business on Facebook Places. The Facebook Places application should be seen as another important tool to helping your business grow.