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02/02/2012 by
8983 views

The Next Social Wave Of 2012: Pinterest

Pinterest, a social visual network that was launched back in March 2010. While the site is still invite-only it’s been very popular among their 4 million users logging 421 million page views, according to The Next Web.

Of course Pinterest isn’t on par with smashing numbers like 800 million Facebook users or 465 million Twitter users. The invite-only system is keeping the Pinterest eco-system small for the time being, but is it ready to fully open their doors to the public in 2012?

Before we dive into the added value of Pinterest, let’s first take a look what it actually offers.

What is Pinterest?

A place where users can organize and share online photos. Think of it as the evolution of social bookmarking sites like Delicious. But it goes way beyond a bookmarking site, it’s the visual aspect that really makes the difference. Images can be uploaded or shared on Pinterest, this is called a ‘Pin’. These pins can be categorized by user defined categories, also known as ‘Boards’.

Another added layer is the ability to comment, like and share photos. Users can follow each other like Twitter, no need to give permission as it’s an open network. Pins can also be shared on Facebook and Twitter.

How is it currently used?

It depends on the user but it’s safe to say there’s a big difference between brand and personal users. For personal experience Pinterest seems widely popular for designers, architects and travellers. Think of a showcase of your own work or those beautiful places you always wanted to visit.

For brands it can be a very natural environment to be in. Take Etsy for example, an e-commerce website focused on handmade or vintage items as well as art and craft supplies. Etsy brought their catalogue to the Pinterest audience, and why wouldn’t they since the Pinterest audience is 70% female. Sounds like a perfect match to me.

Why brands should stay on top of Pinterest

No doubt about it that Pinterest wouldn’t match every brand. As a matter of fact it seems that mostly small retail businesses are using Pinterest to inspire, showcase and sell their products.

However, think about this for a minute. There’s a huge potential if Pinterest steps off from their invite-only registration model, gaining millions of new users. This means people will start ‘pinning’ what they love, and most certainly branded products will be in there as well.

Think of Fashionistas, showcasing all their Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Prada bags. You name it, they will Pin it. Fashion brands can really start adding value in this space by showing more than just pictures of products. Show how different bags can fit each specific occasion.

In other words, lots of new opportunities for brands to reach and engage their consumers.

How do you think Pinterest can add value for brands? Let us know in the comments below.

 

Source: The Next Web