Pinterest: The Basics for Innkeepers.

Pinterest is a unique social media site that was created in 2008 for users interested in creating "boards" to display their favorite things.  Users can create an unlimited number of virtual boards and then pin or post their favorite images, websites or videos for all to see.  

Initially, Pinterest appealed to the modern "scrapbooker", offering the opportunity to cover creatively named boards with little sticky note sized images of all the things they like and want to share with others.  Certainly the site has a definite feminine bent, but it's appeal is wide ranging and men are just starting to enter the Pinterest world. In four years Pinterest has evolved into a social media superstar for a variety of reasons.

1.  It is by invitation only.  Although,members can chose to invite friends through email or Facebook,  some have to join the hard way.  Go to pinterest.com, apply for a membership and wait to get your invitation delivered to your email box.  Pinterest has managed to seem exclusive, which makes every pinner feel special.

2.  Pinterest offers a wide variety of boards. Travel, photograph, geeks, food, gardening, history, kids....and many, many more.  Surfing the Pinterest boards is a fun way to connect with others who with the same hobbies or interests.

3.  Pinterest is easy.  Once you receive an invitation, create a simple profile, create your first board and then pin.  Pin URLs or upload an image that you love.  Add a description. Choose a category.  Give it a catchy name and then Pin it.  Voila.  Your pin is displayed on your very own board.

4. Pinterest makes it easy to share.  While surfing Pinterest repin or share something you found on someone else's board.  If you really like their taste or have similar interests, follow their board. Updated pins from boards you follow turn up on your Pinterest landing page, insuring you see your favorite stuff first.

5.  Pinterest is addicting.  Just as it is fun to collect Likes and Comments on Facebook or Followers on Twitter, getting your pins repinned is fun...and addictive.  Pinterest politely drops an email in your box letting you know that someone is now following your boards or has repinned an image.  Pinners like to share their favorites with others and repins make one feel creative and special.

For more information or to join go to: http://pinterest.com

Pinterest has a number of applications to small business and offers a fun way for innkeepers to share what they love.

Next Blog:  Pinterest for Today's Innkeeper