Choosing to have your brand represented on social media is a smart move. It’s something that we at TargetMarket can 100% get behind. We back the decision with loads of stats, great numbers and analytics in our strategies.
But how are you supposed to know which social media platforms you belong on? Do they all make sense for you or would a presence on just one or two platforms work better? We get those question from business owners often. It’s an extremely valid question, especially when there are so many variables involved. And it’s one that we provide an in-depth analysis for when we give you an answer in your personalized strategy.
Facebook and Twitter are two platforms that seem to be top-of-mind when we first sit down with a business owner. Instagram is also usually mentioned, as well as LinkedIn. But one social media platform in particular is oftentimes forgotten or disregarded.
Pinterest’s visual-based platform is one of the most effective social media tools for a business owner if used correctly. Just like any other social media platform, there are always best practices that can be incorporated to make the most of a brand’s Pinterest account.
But first, a little about the platform. Described as a virtual bulletin board that users can save recipes to, find home decor inspiration, discover (and shop) for new looks, and so much more, the social media platform has proven that it’s a force to be reckoned with. According to the Pew Research Center, Pinterest is the 3rd most popular social media site among U.S. adults. In fact, a whopping 41% of women in the U.S. are active Pinterest users. Hootsuite, the social media management platform puts it perfectly. “Some of us might be guilty of underestimating this network, but Pinterest has quietly risen to success as a powerful search engine and one of the internet’s most important shopping platforms.”
Just like any social media platform, using Pinterest for your business is all about finding an effective way to communicate with your target audience. We have some quick tips to help you bring in leads and website traffic by using the platform to its fullest potential.
First and foremost, use a Pinterest business account
Pinterest’s business accounts give business owners access to Pinterest Analytics, paid ads and shoppable Pins (a current major player in online retail space). If you’ve been operating as a business under a personal account, we recommend making the switch over. Pinterest has made it simple to convert to a business account, click here to get started. Once you have your business account set up, you’ll be able to add in a brief bio, your location and a link to your website.
Increase visibility with vertical imagery
Because Pinterest is organized in running columns, we recommend using a high-resolution vertical image when uploading a Pin. Users’ eyes are drawn to the larger images and graphics, increasing the likelihood of having them Repin or click on the Pin, which directs them to your website. Provide users some added information in the image you upload, like listicles, infographics, charts or photo collages to further encourage them to click. For 8 other image features that are proven to drive consumer engagement, click here.
Pinterest Linking 101
Whether you’re linking to a new blog, the About Us page on your website or your Contact page, always use appealing imagery and customize the caption. From there, you can designate which board to categorize your uploaded Pin under. For example, if you have a blog on your website, we recommend having a blog board. If you have an e-commerce website, you should create a board with your products. Make the most of the content on your website when Pinning and always be sure to link back to your website when uploading a Pin!
Include a link to your Pinterest account in the header or footer of your website along with links to your other social media profiles and make sure blogs and similar content have a “Save” button (formerly the “Pin It” button) so viewers can easily save the content from your website to their Pinterest boards.
There are so many facets to running a successful Pinterest account for your business, we could write an entire book on it.
If you’re ready to be hands-off when it comes to implementing your digital marketing strategy, that’s where we come in. Give us a call at (888) 632-4499 to set up your free consultation today!
