Hey fellow PR newbies/interns! Today I have a new segment to add to the blog, it’s called Social Nework Saturdays (clever, huh?), where every other Saturday I will give you the what’s what behind Social media networks. Why? Because in today’s PR market, understanding social media (what it is, what it means for your client, how to use it) is crucial, IMHO. Let’s get started: today’s social network is a favorite of mine: Pinterest.
Pinterest is described as a “pinboard-style social photo sharing website that allows users to create and manage theme-based image collections such as events, interests, hobbies, and more.” Founded by Iowan Ben Silbermann in March 2010, it has literally blown up in ways nobody even managed; as of January 2012, Pinterest had 11 million unique visitors in the US alone; the average Pinterest users spend over an hour on the site, per day. Why does this all matter to PR? Because users=customers=revenue=PR budget sustained. Companies that use Pinterest has reported increased revenue, customer/fan-base and better customer experience reports. So, how can PR pros use this powerful medium? Luckily for you all, I’ve compiled some tips on effectively utilizing Pinterest:
- Think visually: this site is ALL about the pictures, start thinking of terms of the visual
- Get your hashtags and keywords together: Just like Twitter, if you want to be found, make sure your posts come up in search
- Add Pinterest to ALL of your websites and other social networks
- Participate in the conversation: Comment on all of your own posts and when someone else comments, reply to them!
- Think before ye pin: is this appropriate? Does it positively communicate your brand?
- Remember, it’s not all about you! Follow top influencers and pin inspiration from others (with proper linkbanks, of course), don’t make your board a “me-fest”
- Pin industry articles and/or articles from reporters and editors, this can help build those essential relationships with them
- Keep it human, light and fun! For me, Pinterest is a great opportunity to laugh at myself (and PR) a little, while pumping up my brand and talking about the things I like. I am making a more concerted effort to make my Pinterest more PR-friendly.
Want some more info/tips on pinning for the PR pro (whew! That’s a mouthful) take a look at my sources:
10 ways to use Pinterest for your business
15 Ways To Use Pinterest For PR
How to use Pinterest in your PR campaigns
Pinterest & PR — Getting The Most Out Of The Newest Social Media Outlet
16 ways to use Pinterest for PR
Jess AsPRing 