Pinterest is taking the world by storm as it establishes itself as the premiere cultivator of art, talent and choice. Registered users pin pictures of items, events or just about anything of interest to a board, hence the name pin-terest.
These boards are shared among users – you can also have private boards. The site has evolved since its 2010 launch to the point where you can buy and sell items on the board. After a slow start, this social network service has seen exponential growth. Pinterest boasts over 150 million users worldwide according to the latest stats.
If you want to successfully tap into all that potential and figure out how to sell on Pinterest, there are a few things you need to be cautious of.
Six Missteps to Avoid When You Sell on Pinterest:
- Using sub-par images: A picture is worth a thousand words on Pinterest. This is the only thing the customer has to go on if they are going to buy something from your Pinterest board. Using fuzzy pictures is a sure way to have the would-be customer scroll to a sharper image of the same item they want. Optimising your images is essential.
- Extended turnaround times: Make certain to state a realistic shipping and return policy, and endeavour to stick with it. You cannot be accountable for the post office, but incorporate that lag into your timeframe. Many customers want their item as soon as possible, so do your best to meet these expectations.
- Not having stated items: If Pinterest is not your only selling venue, chances are you have this one in the bag. Just bear in mind that there may be an overwhelming demand for your item since Pinterest has millions of users. With that type of foot traffic, it is imperative to have a tight rein on inventory so as not to disappoint an interested customer.
- Charging exorbitant shipping to compensate for competitive pricing: This is a pitfall that many sellers fall into. Do not underestimate the savvy shopper who will be repelled by this ploy. Aim to charge as close to the actual shipping rate that you will be charged. Shipping should not be a way to recoup funds for low priced items.
- Not capitalising on the sites’ resources adequately: Pinterest has allowed “virtual storefronts” on the site. Via Pinterest Analytics, marketers can now access statistical information regarding demographics, pins, pinners and determine traffic trends and the like. These tools can equip you to cater more specifically to capitalise on sales for your items.
- Having poor customer service: Though most of the above items reference poor customer service, it bears stressing for the sixth point. In addition to the aforementioned be careful to be courteous and appreciative of your customer’s patronage. Today more than ever, users could have gone somewhere else to make their purchases.
Users are generally in a good mood when they arrive at your site on the Pinterest social network. It is free to join and they get the opportunity to “shop” or scroll through items that give them visual pleasure. It is thus important to maintain that pleasant and free feeling when they decide to click “buy it” at your virtual storefront.