The world of geo-social applications is shrinking, with the recent purchase and shut-down of Gowalla by Facebook. But that isn’t stopping a new upstart, called Tangletech, from unleashing on the business world a new take on the social check-in – herematch.
So, what exactly is herematch? Well, as their slogan, “Check in with herematch – Check out with Business” indicates, their purpose is for you to check in at business events, and they will match you with other users at the same place or event, and display that list of matches and why they match you. Maybe they are looking for your services, or maybe you went to the same school or are from the same town. Either way, they may be someone that you want to connect with, right there. And they provide the means to do just that. But don’t worry, they also provide a complete list of everyone that has checked into the event or location, as well, so you can view their profile, and decide whether to connect.
By filling out your profile, you provide herematch with the required information to match you to similar attendees, including your industry, the services you need, your business location, as well as the standard bio and contact information, including cell phone (which would be necessary to connect you “immediately”).
I would also recommend that you add your profile picture (just like all other networking applications), so that you have a reference should you decide to meet in person at an event.
But, one of the most interesting features, I feel, is the ability to find local events, on the herematch website (registration is required). Just put some general information (category, city, state, or industry) and herematch will provide you with a listing of upcoming events that fit your criteria. What better way to plan your networking strategy than having all events right at your fingertips. You are also able to add events not in their database, either from the event or in advance, giving you the ability to connect with people at any business networking event.
Do we need another check-in application?
After downloading the application at the Trade Brooklyn B2B Trade Show on March 20th, I immediately checked in (after checking in on Foursquare), to see if this program would benefit me. Unfortunately, I wasn’t provided with any matches, and very few people had checked in to the event. In addition, the application is limited to the New York area, although they will be expanding nationwide shortly (it only entered the Apple App Store in January, and the Android Market on March 20th).
Do we need another check-in application? Maybe. Herematch’s ability to match your needs with those of the people around you seems like a major benefit, especially at a large trade show (like Trade Brooklyn) when you might not get an opportunity to meet everyone, at least you will meet those people looking for your particular services.
I will continue to give herematch a chance, especially at the next big trade show, Trade Nassau, which takes place on April 25th. I think every app deserves a second chance. But do they get a third? I don’t know.
Have you tried it? Do you use geo-social applications? What do you think, do we need another check-in app? Let’s discuss…
Author:
Craig E. Yaris is the owner of EsquireTech Solutions, which helps small business get found on the social web, whether through Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn, he can both teach you the effective use of any social network or act as your social media manager, enabling you to reach your clients where they are and when they want to hear from you. He can teach your organization the social media best practices that can help you use the tools of today to cost-effectively increase your bottom line. EsquireTech Solutions brings the social web to your business. Visit EsquireTech Solutions or call 516-495-9107.
Resources:
Come check out herematch’s next Matchup @ Trade Brooklyn on April 10th at the Brooklyn Navy Yard. Register to attend at http://www.tradebklyn.com.