Pinterest: Seven (More) Reasons Why Brands Should Jump on Board

Now is the time for businesses to embrace Pinterest not only because it’s growing in popularity, but also because Pinterest is driving more qualified buyers to online retailers than other social media channels. Convertro’s latest data indicates that in terms of revenue, Pinterest is the fastest growing social media traffic source for ecommerce websites – representing 17.4% and quickly gaining on Facebook. Convertro predicts that number will grow to 40% by the end of Q2 2012. Still not convinced? Well, here are seven more reasons brands should jump on board:

1. To increase loyalty. A RJMetrics study stated that Pinterest is two to three times more efficient than Twitter in retaining and engaging customers. Businesses should pin followers’ images to their boards and permit users to pin to theirs. Doing this shows you think your followers have good taste too. And they’ll feel an even greater connection to your brand. 
2. To create more connections. Pinterest is simple-to-use and makes it extremely easy to connect with other brands and/or users with the same interests as you.
3. To introduce your brand or to showcase items consumers may not know exist on your site. I love discovering new sites, blogs and brands I never knew existed. Pinterest is a place consumers can stumble upon your brand’s hidden treasures. It exposes users to so many images. With one simple click, they’re taken right to your site and if they like what they see, they’ll come back or buy on the spot. A fairly effortless acquisition tactic.
4. To give your brand a personality. Pinterest is a perfect way to show your brand in a different light. Post the inspiration behind your merchandise, services, company values or mission. While many brands have their own blogs that do this, it’s pretty much impossible for a consumer to keep up with all the blogs and all the posts at all times. Pinterest showcases your brand to consumers in a visual way that your blog, website, Facebook page and Twitter handle can’t.
5. To better understand your consumers. Pinterest is a free consumer insight tool. It’s an easy way for businesses to gain insights into exactly what is driving growth. No focus group necessary!
6. To improve merchandising. Pinterest allows businesses to organize products in a way their website may not be able to. Arrange boards strategically with a variety of items that a consumer might not necessarily put together. It will open consumers’ minds to an array of possibilities. And they’ll credit your brand for sparking their inspiration.
7. To share. Pinterest is all about sharing, which is great news for businesses. It’s a fun and visual way to share thoughts, inspirations, attitudes, looks – just about anything.

Pinterest makes sense for a lot of brands, but that doesn’t mean it’s right for every single brand out there. Is your target audience using the platform? Can your brand add value? Do you have a resource dedicated to pinning and building engagement? If yes, then start pinning!

Is your brand Pinning yet? Comment, ask questions and provide tips below…