subject: Pinterest: The Community Rules You Need To Follow [print this page] Just as sports have rules, and a code of conduct, so do social media networks. Beyond the terms of service there is an overall expectation from the community for how the community should run. It is no different on Pinterest. The early adopters on Pinterest are resolute in their determination to keep the site free and clear of spam, both intentional and unintentional. Too much selling and self-promotion gets reported and penalized.
1. Do As You Would Be Done By
More than a reference to the childhood classic, 'The Water Babies', this is a moral code that is always in play when marketing with social media. The Pinterest community demands respect, for freedom of speech and a difference of opinions, but also in the comments made underneath each pin. It is always possible to disagree politely, and suggest, rather than demand an alternative line of thought. And if someone is wrong, according to the facts you've uncovered then you need to offer the new facts with diplomacy.
2. Credit Your Sources
Always try to pin an image from its original source. This is not so easy with the web today, and when repinning other people's pictures. Imagine if you were the artist: would you not want someone to pin your picture with a link to your site as opposed to the repinner? Try to get back to the original whenever you can. There is a Google Chrome Extension that allows you to search Google by image and that can often lead to the right place.
3. Take Responsibility For The Network's Wellbeing
Once you are a part of the Pinterest community, that community is what you make it. It is up to you to report spammers and other objectionable content. Pinterest does not allow hateful remarks, nudity or "content that encourages people to hurt themselves". Should you find something like that you need to take action by pushing the "Report Content" link.
When we all pull together to keep a neighborhood clean and fun, it becomes a nice place for everyone to hang out in. Just like the neighborhood parks and the road medians where local businesses have planted flowers. A little maintenance goes a long way to keep the place nice for everyone. So, too, with social networks. Pinterest is full of wonderful images on just about everything. There is always another joke, another inspirational quote, another way to look at something just around the corner. It's a great place to hang out; let's keep it that way.
