In case you haven’t heard, Pinterest is taking off and quite frankly, this is a social media platform that you will want to get to know!
I recently heard that Pinterest is much like a “visual resume.” This one of a kind platform gives you the opportunity to showcase who you are through your passions!
Just like every other social media platform, Pinterest is about developing relationships. And the reality is, once people realize that you are a “real” human being who has likes, passions, hobbies, etc., they are more inclined to look into what you have to offer.
So today, let me share with you some unique ways to use Pinterest to grow your business:
Be real, be authentic:
One of the biggest mistakes you can make when it comes to Pinterest is choosing to only pin your products and services. The truth of the matter is, we live in what I like to call a “curious” world meaning, people want to know you! Truthfully, I get the most responses on many of my social media platforms when I post about my life and what is taking place. So when it comes to Pinterest, pin pictures about your life. What do you enjoy doing, where have you traveled, what books do you like to read, what would your dream house look like, what are some of your favorite quotations, what are your favorite kinds of shoes to wear, what foods do you enjoy eating, what inspires you, etc. Really take the time to allow your followers to get to know you.
Be engaged:
Just like with every other social media platform, connect with your followers. When someone leaves you a comment, comment back. When you find a picture of something you like, leave a comment for the person who pinned the picture. Remember, it’s about building relationships and the only way you can do that is by being engaged with others.
Post Eye Catching Photos:
Pinterest is all about the visual. If you want to catch the attention of others…be sure to post pictures that are visually appealing.
Create boards around your niche: Depending on your business…create boards that represent what you do as a business. Don’t just create boards about the products you sell, instead create boards that provide visitors with great content and information. Give people the best you have!
Use Hashtags:
With each picture, be sure to include hashtags as this will allow others who are interested in your topic, to find you!
Create a link:
Be sure that your pictures are clickable and that they lead back to your website. If people are wanting more information about what you have to offer as a business…give them the opportunity to find out more. Provide a call to action; let them know what their next step is.
Utilize the “Pin It” Button:
Make sure that your website has the “Pin It” widget installed. This is HUGE! You want to give visitors to your website the opportunity to pin your content to their boards. Again, this increases your visibility!
Host a “Pin It 2 Win It” Contest:
This is HUGE! Host a contest that allows those who repin your product or service and who leave a comment, to win something that your business offers. This will create momentum and visibility!
It’s not about you:
I’ve recently read many people stating that they just don’t have time for another social media platform, that they don’t “like” Pinterest, etc. Quite frankly, I think we need to remind ourselves that it’s not about us! Our businesses are about serving others and when this becomes your core, you will do whatever it takes to provide the best and most useful wisdom and knowledge to your clients. Remember, Pinterest is bringing in thousands of people on a daily basis…there is something here that consumers are liking. So whether or not you like or dislike it, it’s about the customer and if you want to see your business impact the lives of others, then you will soon realize that’s it’s not about you.
Remember, social media is about developing relationships! Get involved, share your passions, have fun and be real with others! It makes all the difference!
What’s holding you back from pinning?
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Jennifer Bennett is Founder of SocialMediaJen.com and has had the opportunity to not only work alongside a variety of professionals as they build their online presence, but Jen has had the opportunity to lead in a variety of experiences including, Personal Development, Curriculum Design, Event planning, Event Management, Teaching, Instructional Leadership, Mentoring and Administration.
Jen is a master when it comes to bringing order out of chaos. She is known to be highly effective when it comes to implementing and sustaining the mission and goals of an organization. She loves new projects and challenges and does everything with efficiency and promptness!
Additionally, Jen is a polished public speaker who has recently been noted for her published curriculum guide, “My Soul Mission: A Step-by-Step Guide to Helping Students Discover Their Unique Soul Mission.”
Jen has a BA in Communications/Public Relations from the University of North Florida, a Masters in Christian Education from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and is in the process of completing her Doctorate in Curriculum Development/Instructional Leadership from Nova Southeastern University.
Connect with Jenn on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest and LinkedIn.
Filed under: Guest Posts, Social Networking Tagged: Dr. Jen Bennett, how-to, Pinterest, small business tips, Social Media
