Dec 8, 2013

Businesses Tap into Pinterest, InstagramBy Joyce M. RosenbergRockyMountainTelegram.com

Small businesses are using social media to promote their businesses and lure shoppers this holiday season — and they’re not just on Facebook. Or Twitter.

Pinterest and Instagram are getting big “likes” from business owners. Facebook and Twitter may have a broader reach, but some owners are finding that Pinterest and Instagram help them connect with their target audience. Pinterest’s users are primarily women, while Instagram appeals to young adults. Also, the services rely heavily on photos, giving businesses a chance to show off more of what they have to offer.

Even with the increased usage by owners, Pinterest and Instagram are still in their infancy in terms of being embraced by small business. An American Express survey released during the spring showed that the two services were each used by 2 percent of business owners, compared to 37 percent for Facebook and 10 percent for Twitter. But owners who do use Pinterest and Instagram say they’re a good way to connect with their customers.

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