The newest and hottest social network to break the top 10 list is Pinterest. The visually appealing, micro-blogging site allows users to find, share and organize online images they find inspiring. It has exploded from 1.2 million users in August to over 4 million today, and it's still technically invite only.
All of this attention has caught the eye of brands, especially those in the home, garden and lifestyle sector. It's a smart marketing move, as the largest audience on Pinterest is comprised of women ages 25-34, with interests in those categories.
Below are a few brands that (according to Pinterest) really know how to utilize all that the site has to offer:
1. Whole Foods
2. Martha Stewart
3. Better Homes and Gardens
4. Real Simple
5. West Elm
6. Bergdorf Goodman
7. Today
8. Travel Channel
What makes them so successful?
1. Brand Focus
They all know how to showcase their brand, whether it be food, design or destinations. For example, Whole Foods has boards that highlight their own Whole Foods recipes. Real Simple posts craft ideas and inspiration that comes from their magazine.
2. Become a Resource
All of these successful brands have become a resource for their followers. They contribute helpful information that is in line with their image and mission. Today for example has boards with tips and behind-the-scenes peaks from the show. Better Homes and Gardens makes sure you will never be floundering for a dinner recipe with boards ranging from "Healthy Dinner Recipes" to "Casseroles to Make Tonight!"
3. Board Quality
One of the most defining traits of successful interest pages are rich, full boards. No one wants to follow a board that has sporadic or few pins. Bergdorf Goodman has 20 boards, all devoted to a fun trends and style. The Travel Channel offers beautiful picture after picture of travel destinations and finds.
It won't be long until more brands are realizing the potential of Pinterest to highlight their product or service in a highly visual network. What do you think? Are you following any brands on Pinterest?
