Pinterest is the Next BIG Thing!

I've already introduced Pinterest on my blog and since that entry, I've noticed more and more people joining the online bulletin board website. [No, I am not saying it's because of me. Well, maybe...] Pinterest launched in 2010 and has grown significantly and quickly. The site registered more than 7 million unique visitors in December, up from 1.6 million in September. Pinterest is driving more traffic to company websites and blogs than YouTube, Google+, and LinkedIn combined. That's WILD and businesses should listen up! [And keep reading...]

Why should businesses join Pinterest?

• Pinterest allows people, or businesses to pin images of company's products which links them back to the company website. Companies can upload pictures of new products onto their organized boards, and people will see those products if they're following the company page. The company page should not be ALL business related though. For example, Whole Foods Markets pins pictures of food and recipes, and also ways to recycle or reuse things.
• Pinterest is upping the sales for some businesses because those businesses recognize that Pinterest is a two-way street. They post stuff that relates to their business, but also "follows" their fans and comments on and "likes" other peoples pins. Pinterest is a great way to interact with consumers and see who your customers really are.
• Not all businesses will benefit by joining Pinterest. If your product or service isn't particularly visual, your images may not tie directly back to your brand. The best way to see if it works is to give it a shot and remember to not be too promotional.
• Another way to link your business and Pinterest is to create an image of a special deal or coupon just for Pinterest followers.

After a few months, see if Pinterest drove any people to your business and tweak your boards if necessary. Make sure to link to your Pinterest site on your company website. Remember: the best images attract the most attention and followers.