Pinterest and Your Brand: Compelling Ways to Build Engagement

Jan. 10, 2012

Some have lauded it as the
hottest" new social network, and
although it hasn't yet received widespread popularity as Facebook, Twitter or Google+, Pinterest has seen an immense amount of growth in followers over the past year, and was found to be one of the top 10 social networks by Mashable.

For those who may not know too much about it: Pinterest is a place to share images of interest. Once you upload an image, it becomes known as a Pin, which you can then place on themed boards of your creation. From polka-dot balloons to breakfast pancakes to bridal dresses, the sky's the limit when it comes to board topics, and you can follow others based on similar interests. One thing to note about Pinterest is that you have to be invited to the network.

It's more than just a repository for "cool" images, though. As Mashable research has found, some businesses have discovered intriguing ways to engage with their customers via Pinterest. Check out some of them below:

1. Contests

For B2C companies, something as simple as a photo contest can really boost engagement with your customers. One idea: for a clothing store, the contest can consist of submitting photos of your best outfits from a particular retailer.

2. New Product Approval

Since Pinterest's popularity is still rising, it's an ideal platform to gather customer intelligence around new products (think of it as an incredibly cost-effective, and highly social, focus group).

3. Showcase Brand Identity

For those organizations that may not have products, Pinterest can allow you to weave your brand story through images. A brilliant example: a mayoral candidate can illustrate their philanthropic, socially-responsible initiatives through a specific Pinterest Board.

To read more, check out the full article. Are there any other Pinterest tips and tricks that you've found useful? Post them here!