How Pinterest is working to be a positive social network

Social media networks can often feel like organizations devoid of corporate purpose. They spread misinformation, encourage toxicity between users and overall can make you feel pretty down about yourself and the world.

Pinterest is trying to buck that trend and be a force for positivity.

They’ve banned advertising on political topics and weight loss, outlawed climate misinformation in ads or posts, and rolled out a “compassionate search” that connects people to resources based on their Pinterest searches.

But the organization’s commitment to purpose extends beyond user experience and into the employee experience as well.

Dr. LeMia Jenkins Thompson, Pinterest’s chief communications officer, keynoted Ragan and PR Daily’s Social Media Conference with her presentation “A Platform for Purpose: How Pinterest Leads With Its Value.” Here’s how the pinning platform is trying to buck the trend of negativity and become a force for good.

A safe space for inspiration

Unlike many other social networks, Pinterest does not monetize election search results or advertising. However, they do direct users to reputable information on registering to vote and other crucial resources.

“You can come onto the platform and feel like you’re getting the right information,” Jenkins Thompson said.