I was home with a terrible cold for Memorial Day weekend so I spent some extra time online. Fortunately, I was able to check out one of the new social networking sites called, Pinterest, which is still in beta-testing. To open an account, you have to request an invitation.
According to Pinterest, ‘the site is a virtual pinboard — a place where you can create collections of things you love and “follow” collections created by people with great taste. People use Pinterest to collect and share all sorts of things — wedding inspiration, favorite T-shirts, DJ equipment. You name it, people are pinning it.’
When I first received my invitation and set up my profile, the site reminded me a bit of one of my favorite online tools, Evernote, except that it’s primarily for photos. With Pinterest, you create your own virtual pinboards which is a great concept for a girl who always has a full pinboard in her office.
Pinterest allows you to add a “Pin It” button to your browser tool bar to make it easy for you to “Pin” your favorite pictures and images from the web to one of your pinboards. Pinterest provides an opportunity for social networking through the use of images by allowing you to follow your friends on the site and see what they’re “Pinning” to their boards. You can “like” their images and even “repin” them to one of your own.
The site is easy to use and navigate while it allows you to create the ultimate vision board. I had fun playing with the site and seeing the images that my friends posted.
However, it seems like there could also be some great applications of this network for businesses, especially those with beautiful product photos or people who provide services such as interior design, photography, wedding planning, etc. Since the images provide the link to the original site, it would be possible to attract potential clients to your website if you had an amazing image that caught their attention.
I may also use the site to organize ideas for inspiration on future projects, home remodeling, cooking, and just things I love. Have you tried Pinterest yet? How do you see the site being applied in your life or business? I’d love to hear your thoughts.
About Monica Ray
I was recently invited to Pinterest and don’t quite know what I am doing yet when I am there, but WOW I can so see the potential! I can also see me clicking on board after board after board as there is so much quality content. I guess I would have to limit myself…will keep you posted : )
V
Valynne recently posted..From Alberta Street to WordCamp Portland 2011
I’ll have to visit your profile, I have found the site to be a great source of inspiration and creative ideas. Hope to see you there