Changes at Pinterest

So, I wanted to write on this last week…but sickness and planning for the holidays just kept getting in the way.  Anyway, you may have heard the latest news on Pinterest… if you have not, here is the scoop –

Last week Pinterest announced a set of new features and policies designed to make the social media site more business friendly.  The photo sharing, cool-kid in social media is now allowing (also requiring) that commercial pinners use a business account.  This is fantastic for businesses, many of whom have abstained from Pinterest because Terms of Service did not specifically allow commercial use.  Those with individual accounts can convert them to business accounts quickly and with no hassle (it took me less than five minutes).  Click here to get started. 

The creation of the business accounts represents an important shift in the company’s values.  I expect we’ll see more business friendly features rolled out in the near future.

Can you say fun new way to Christmas shop?  Pinterest also allows users to search for gifts and sort by price range.  We’ll likely see this feature get some heavy use during the upcoming holiday season as retailers take advantage of the business account.

Just another real quick update –

Pinterest is now allowing the creation of private boards.  Let’s say you want to get your holiday shopping inspiration from the site but do not want others to see your ideas…simply create a “secret board” that only you can see.  There is a three secret board limit and you can invite others to contribute to your secret board