If you’re new to Pinterest or just looking for more ideas on how to get the most out of your pinning, look no further! We’ve outlined some best practices and put together some board inspiration that will have your store pinning for success!
Be Sure Your Merchandise is Pin-able
Even if you aren’t active on Pinterest, you need to make sure your website is set up so visitors can pin photos of your merchandise. Prominently display a “Pin it” button on every page so shoppers can quickly pin and collect what they love. Also, be sure to type descriptive details to accompany your product photos to make it easier for shoppers to add a description to their pins, improving your exposure on Pinterest.
Pin with a Purpose
Pinterest is all about discovery. It’s a new way for shoppers to visually search and find inspiring things and products to love. Create boards that inspire and entertain your shoppers.
- Create boards that complement your store’s personality. You work hard to create a unique shopping experience at your boutique. Let that character shine on Pinterest! Pin a mix of your own products with inspiring ideas your shoppers would love.
- Show off your expertise. Pinterest is the best place for relevant content curation. Shoppers trust your industry knowledge. Inspire them with creative ideas on how to decorate a room using your product as a focal point, show how your products fit current trends or show shoppers how to wear a tricky style.
- Support your local community. Your shoppers love to shop local. Pin items from neighboring stores and restaurants to brag about your city and support your neighbors.
Pro Tip: Make sure you are registered on Pinterest as a business account. Pinterest offers both personal and business accounts. The biggest advantage to using a business account is having access to analytics. You can track how pinners are responding to your merchandise and what they are re-pinning.
Avoid these Common Missteps
Now that you have a solid foundation on what to do, here’s some advice on what not to do:
- Don’t upload pins directly to Pinterest. You will miss out on important features your shoppers need. The pin will not link anywhere, so your shoppers are left in the dark about where to buy your product (and you’ll miss out on sales!).
- Don’t get too sales-y. Pinners want to see a visual feast in their feed so they can discover a variety of new ideas and products. Don’t be afraid to show off your merchandise, but be sure you are mixing in other creative and inspiring ideas as well. It becomes very clear you’re only trying to sell them something if you only pin your own merchandise. Try to focus on developing an honest relationship just like you would chatting with a shopper in your store.
- Don’t get caught up in collecting followers. Unlike other social networks, your pins can become viral. 80% of pins are actually re-pins, meaning your merchandise will reach a much wider audience than just your followers. Focus more on delivering quality content and shoppers will continue to find you organically.
Pro Tip: Are you only showcasing your merchandise on Facebook right now? Unfortunately you cannot pin items to Pinterest from Facebook. Make Boutique Window your website so you can reach a wider audience.
Board Inspiration
Not sure where to begin? Here are some inspiring Pinterest boards we found to get you started on the right foot. Happy Pinning!
Holiday / Event Wishlist
Encourage your shoppers to build a wish list on Pinterest by pinning or re-pinning your merchandise. They can share their virtual wishlist with their loved ones for holidays and birthdays who can then click through to your website to purchase presents!
Outfit Inspiration
Give your shoppers ideas on how to wear an item from your store. Check out how Duo Shoescreated a board with styling ideas for their Silver Bootie.
Boutique Life
Share the brick-and-mortar experience with your online community. We love how Tsurucreated a board to showcase their beautiful window and in-store displays.
Lifestyle Boards
Keep your target customer in mind when you’re pinning. KC Dancegear shares healthy recipes for their active customers.
