Have you seen a Facebook post or a Tweet where a friend says, "Hey, I've checked in at Tony's Pizza!"? Perhaps you use these services yourself to make notes about travel or just share the things you love to do with your social circle.

Just yesterday Facebook launched into the location-friendly world with Facebook Places.  We'll save you some time (though their full FAQ is worth reading) and show you how to use Places – and why you should.

Facebook users can only "check in" at your business using their mobile phone once Facebook has a Place page for you, so let's get started!

(Do step "0″ first and make sure Facebook knows about you!)

0. Create your Facebook Page. If you haven't already created a Page for your business – there is no time like the present, and we have lots of reasons why it's a great idea!
1. Create your Place. If someone has not already added your business, you can do so by using the "check in" button on your Facebook iPhone app (or at http://touch.facebook.com), then click on "Add" to get started.
2. Check In! Go ahead and check in and start the ball rolling on your visibility. Encourage your iPhone-wielding clients to do the same, and in short order your Place could have a greatly increased online presence for your city.
3. Formally Claim your Place. Once your Place is listed, you can claim it to have access to it's information like address and other details. Just search for your business name in Facebook and once you see the Place listing, look near the bottom for the "Is this your business?" link and click away to claim your Place. You'll need to verify using a business license or other form of electronic legal document, but once you have the file, uploading it is quick and easy.