"Just because you can doesn't mean you should." If I had one phrase to give as advice to new "pinners," that would be it.

While I know you would never stand up on the table at a private dinner party and throw your business cards all over the guests, table, and floor, there are many marketers who essentially do just that in the realm of social media.  To avoid a Pinterest faux-pas, learn some basic Pinterest Etiquette.

1. Sustain the ambience. Pinterest is like a virtual brainstorming session. It's a place where users go to unwind, collect, organize and share ideas. Be mindful of other creative minds working and learn to blend and mingle. Interpreted: Pin others' ideas way more than your own. You'll soon build a following and establish essential credibility, making your pins reach an even wider audience.

2. Pin tastefully. While most pins are appreciated, some are offensive. When Pinterest recently announced an upcoming upgrade on a blog post, the comments revealed an overwhelming amount of requests for filters. Many users said they wanted to be able to browse Pinterest with children present and even to let their children use it without fear of seeing things they shouldn't. Pin with all viewers in mind.

3. Think visually. A blogger may be tempted to post any picture just to get more traffic, but Pinterest is mostly about images -- not articles or lengthy blog posts. Design or hire a web designer to create visually stunning images that can both stand alone (for the casual Pinterest browser) and that also inspire pinners to click through and engage in your content. One of the most popular ways to engage visual users is through infographics.

Pinterest is currently in beta and requires an email invitation to join. If you would like an invitation or want to learn how Zoetic Freelance can help you promote your brand through Pinterest, email me at Kristen@zoetical.com.

Part Three | Pinterest Marketing 101: The Science of Sharing
Part One | Pinterest Marketing 101: The Power of Pictures