Jackson Lo

It looks like Bing and Facebook are collaborating on a project that will bring search social.

When you hear that, what goes through your mind? (think for a second now)

The results that users get from "friend-engine" is what their friends Like. Search results will be based upon what your friends say about a particular shop in your town or city. Much like Google Places that allow users to post reviews of their favourite or not so favourite stores in the local area. These reviews ultimately affect how others who read the reviews will react to that business. But the decision is up the the user as to whether he wants to try that famous restaurant others have said 'it is fantastic', or a friend who told him/her 'we found bugs in our food.'

What does this all mean to a local business owner?

Local businesses need to ask themselves, am I retaining my customers well enough? Are the same customers coming back for my products and services frequently enough? Are they telling their friends about us? Local businesses need to engage in the social sphere more if not already doing so. They must also offer an exceptional customer experience so their customers will speak about them all the time. One of the most common questions people ask when they don't know where to go is "what do you recommend"?

Would you ask the search engines that question?

Or would you ask your friends?

Or would you ask a stranger?

My question for you: What sources would you go (and trust) to find a recommended venue?

AND Do you support what Facebook and Bing are about to do?

Please share your thoughts in the comment box below.