I recently wrote a post about marketing, and asked for advice about managing the various social media forums such as Twitter and Facebook. I got some fantastic advice – once again thanks to everyone who commented – and you can read all about it here. But don’t go away yet – I want to talk about Pinterest first!
The lovely Clare from Suddenly Lost In Words recommended Pinterest as yet another place to connect with readers. I’d heard of Pinterest, of course, but had dismissed it as somewhere to put up crafting photos or to share ideas about home decor and fashion. Not that I’m not interested in home decor or fashion, or indeed crafting, but I don’t have time for mere fun!
Anyway, on Clare’s advice I checked out Pinterest, and within minutes I was hooked. This is not a blow-by-blow account of how to make Pinterest work for authors, because I have no idea yet. What I can tell you is that there are loads of authors on there connecting with readers, and they all seem to be having fun. Clare said, in her blog comment, “Lots of authors have boards on Pinterest, and since their following is something like 96% female ages 25-34 I think that might be right up your alley.” Well, she’s absolutely right! The number 1 rule of marketing is to go where your customers are, or in this case, readers. And if they are hanging out on Pinterest, doing whatever it is they do on there, then I want to be there too!
So, here is the link to my Pinterest page. I have a few ‘boards’ where I pin stuff. So far there are links to my books (well, of course!), reviews and some funny signs I like. You can re-pin and like stuff on Pinterest, which seems to be where the community feel comes from. And that’s as far as I’ve got. If you’re on Pinterest and would like to offer any insights or advice on how it all works then please comment. And follow me, of course 
Related articles
- How Can Pinterest Enhance My Small Business? (lorrainedauphinee.com)
- Pinterest Launches New Data Analytic Tool For Businesses As It Prepares To Monetize (techcrunch.com)
- Stats: Who uses Pinterest and why is it important for marketers? (econsultancy.com)
I love Pinterest…. spend waaaay too much time on it :p
I try to stay away from it, as I spend far too much time online anyway. Deliberate and conscious decision, but at some point, I too will…
I’m still resisting! Lol….I just know I’ll be addicted and that will mean even LESS writing gets done
Xx
This is great, Joanne! I’m so glad you jumped in and got started. I do have to agree that it can be addictive, but that sorts itself out as you learn how to use it effectively. Play around with it for a bit and see what it can and can’t do for you, and have fun doing it!! Happy Pinning
P.S. And you never know, you just may also learn how to make an Easter basket with recycled straw hats and ribbon left over from Christmas!!!
Interesting post. I must admit I haven’t really got to grips with Pinterest yet although I do have an account. I hope it works well for you.
(btw I have just nominated you for the Versatile Blogger, Award – here is the link.)
http://janeayres.blogspot.co.uk/2013/03/versatile-blogger-award.html
Yes, the demographic is perfect, but I’m trying not to get too sucked in. I know I’d spend all day on there looking at beautiful interior design photos, if I’m not careful.
But, rumour has it, it can be an effective source of traffic back to your blog, if you pin the images you use.