You’ve probably heard a lot about Pinterest over the last few months. Undoubtedly one of the most popular new social networks, the site is a place to organize and share online images and ideas that you find interesting or inspiring.
Once uploaded or shared on Pinterest, these images become known as ‘Pins,’ which the user can place on customized, themed Boards. You can create Boards for any topic imaginable, from clothing to recipes and everywhere in between!
Although it's new, the site’s popularity has exploded from 1.2 million users in August to over 7 million today, according to Mashable, and that number is only estimated to grow in 2012.
Take a look at how your store can take advantage of this captive audience on Pinterest:
Post your merchandise:
Add some of your most popular apparel items to Pinterest! It’s a great way to gain attention from not only current students but also others across the country, who may be diehard fans of your football team or alumni of the school. Once uploaded, the pin will link back to your e-commerce site, so viewers can easily purchase it, too!
Create Boards:
While you may be tempted to only post promotional items, you should expand your Pinterest account to include topics that aren’t self-serving. Create a variety of boards that make students view you as a resource, offering them advice and fun ideas on topics that may not necessarily directly relate to your store. Here are some ideas:
• Finals study tips
• Dorm room decorations
• Words of wisdom
• Tailgating recipes
•Get to Know Campus (with local attractions and resources for new and prospective students)
Crowdsource or Run a Contest:
Create a ‘Biggest Fan Board,’ then encourage your students to post pictures of themselves with their favorite product of yours and tag you, using the @ symbol.
You can easily repin it to your designated Board, which will show potential customers that your current users really like your products. You could even offer a prize for the best submission!
Add the “Pin It” Widget to Your Website:
Even if you choose not to create an account for your store, this option will still let you take advantage of some of the site's benefits. Just like you've added other social network widgets on your website and blog, you can add the Pin It widget, as well. This allows visitors to automatically share something they like on your site to Pinterest.
Around the holidays, many users also create a "wish list" board on their Pinterest page to curate the gifts they're hoping for, so you can use this feature to encourage them to add your merchandise, too!
That's only the beginning, though! There are endless possibilities when it comes to building your customer base through Pinterest!
If your store is already active on Pinterest, share your ideas and/or a link to your page in the comments section below!
