Flickr - a great networking site, or waste of time?

world mosaic: a tribute to flickr portraits
Originally uploaded by pardeshi

So far, in the last week that I've been using Flickr.. there isn't much to be seen. I'm still wondering what the big fuss is about Flickr. It's like Youtube for photos. Basically. But for some reason people love it! I'll have to say, I have seen some excellent photos, and artisan crafts on Flickr but I'm just not impressed with the options for small business owners.

Flicker does not like it when business owners use Flickr to blatantly and shamelessly promote their store. Don't bother posting links to your items or your store in your photo descriptions- this has apparently caused many members to be banned from the site. Instead, Flickr allows members to post a link to their website in their profile. Subtle advertising? yes. Effective? I don't know
So far I haven't gotten very many (if any at all) hits from Flickr. Hopefully I will be able to turn this around as I'll be exploring more of what Flickr has to offer small business owners. Below I will share with you my findings.

Well here's what I've found out myself:

* Invite your friends - Flickr allows you to send out mass emails telling your friends about your Flickr "Photostream." Customers, or whoever you have an email address for... send out an email and let people know you're out there! Sometimes I've had friends forward emails I've sent them just to help promote my store. Flickr is a great way for people to see all your photos without the pressure of shopping, or feeling like you only care about their friendship because they have money and you don't.
* Groups - Join LOTS of groups. Make sure your name is out there. Some groups allow you to upload your pictures to their group for others to see. This way you get more exposure! Groups also allow you to network and find others with similar interests. Stay active in the group discussions and you're sure to make new friends and hopefully customers!
* If people are really interested in what you are selling.. they will find a way to access your store. Don't worry about them finding it. People who are determined to buy.. will find a way! It's like they say -Where there's a will.. there's a way!
* Moo - Use your Flickr photos on Moo. If you have an Etsy store you can do this already, but it's just very convenient to be able to quickly and easily transfer photos if you need to make prints.
* Explore - just look around and check out other people's photos. Leave comments and make new friends. Networking is the best way to advertise.
* Don't expect results right away. Just like any website - it's not easy to establish your name. Take time to respond to comments and just be a friendly person - people love buying from other friendly people!

I hope this helps anyone who is as confused about Flickr as I was. My best advice to those people: take time to check out the site and be patient!

Well if you have a Flickr and want a new friend.. look me up!
http://www.flickr.com/photos/fruitjooce/