Have you ever browsed the pin up advertising boards at your local grocery or retailer? It is interesting to see what's for sale in your local community such as puppies for sale, or all the services people offer. There are times when I feel like a bulletin board voyeur because I'm not interested in buying anything, just interested to see what's out there.

I recently read an article about the new social media web site called "Pinterest." The site is at www.pinterest.com. The concept behind Pinterest is the same as what you see in the grocery, but Pinterest takes the concept to the web. It is a web based pin up advertising board where you browse and subscribe to people who are posting products and services they like and may interest you. In addition, you can share the products that interest you on your own pin up boards. 

The opportunity for the travel consultant is to share destinations, cruises, resorts, hotels or other travel products that you've experienced. It's best if you avoid the straight on sales pitch but instead make your pin ups interesting to attract a wide audience. You can get a subtle plug in for your travel business as you build a following. You should share products on your board from other people as well. You want to make this a social experience and not an experience that's all about you and your business. This is true for any social media you engage in, whether it's Twitter, Facebook or Google+. I think Pinterest has a lot of potential and worth a try. 

Pinterest is limiting membership at the present time by offering invitations to join. You can go to the web site and request an invitation. Let me know what you think about Pinterest and whether you believe it is the next big thing in social media. Send me your comments at barry@hometravelagent.net. 

Cheers from your bulletin board voyeur! 

Barry