Pinterest is one of those platforms that seems deceptively simple. Post a pin, add some keywords, and voilà! But if you’ve spent any time trying to gain traction on Pinterest, you know it’s not that easy. The algorithm is complex, and the rules keep shifting. What worked last year might not work this year.
So, how do you beat the Pinterest algorithm and start seeing results with your content? I’m about to share seven tips you probably haven’t heard before. These tips aren’t part of the usual Pinterest advice you see everywhere. They’re practical, data-backed, and most importantly, they work.
1. Focus on Quality Pins, Not Just Quantity
We’ve all heard it: “Pin more often!” But in 2024, quality matters far more than quantity. Pinterest’s algorithm now prioritizes user engagement and content relevance. So, instead of cranking out a ton of mediocre pins, focus on creating high-quality pins that people want to engage with.
Here’s what you should do:
- Invest in your design: Use a tool like Pin Generator to create eye-catching pins. Make sure your design stands out—use bold text, bright colors, and clean fonts.
- Craft compelling descriptions: Don’t just copy-paste the same old keyword-filled description. Write something unique that speaks directly to your target audience. Remember, Pinterest is a search engine, so think about what your audience would search for and craft a description that resonates.
2. Use Video Pins for a Massive Boost
Pinterest is increasingly favoring video pins over static ones. Why? Because video content naturally gets more engagement. If you’re not using video pins yet, you’re missing out on a huge opportunity. It doesn’t have to be complicated either.
How to leverage video pins:
- Create short, engaging videos that capture your audience’s attention in the first few seconds.
- Use tools like Repurpose.io to automate sharing your YouTube and TikTok videos on Pinterest.
- Add captions to your videos because many Pinterest users watch pins with the sound off.
3. Tap Into Pinterest’s New AI-Powered Features
Pinterest is all about AI these days. Their AI can help promote your content to the right audience, but you have to be intentional with your strategy.
Here’s how to work with Pinterest’s AI:
- Let Pinterest do the heavy lifting: Use Pinterest Trends and Pinterest Predicts to discover what’s trending and tailor your pins accordingly.
- Pin clicks: Pinterest’s algorithm is keen on click-through rates. Use Pinclicks to analyze your pin performance and tweak your strategy based on what works.
4. Pin to Relevant Boards Consistently
The old advice was to pin to a ton of different boards, but that’s not effective anymore. The algorithm favors relevant pinning. You need to focus on the most relevant boards for each of your pins.
Here’s what to do:
- Create niche-specific boards to group your pins into more focused categories.
- Use Pinterest’s Board Lists to group your best-performing boards and use them more effectively.
Consistency matters too. Pinterest rewards accounts that are active and show consistent growth. Pinning regularly, even if it’s just a few high-quality pins per day, will help your account get noticed.
5. Use Pinterest’s ‘Idea Pins’ to Capture Interest
If you’re not using Idea Pins yet, you’re leaving traffic on the table. Pinterest’s algorithm is pushing these pins heavily because they keep users engaged longer.
To use Idea Pins effectively:
- Create a series of content with a clear, engaging storyline.
- Include actionable tips, behind-the-scenes looks, or even mini-tutorials. Think of it like a micro-blog post.
- Use call-to-action overlays to encourage users to save or share your Idea Pins.
The more time users spend watching your Idea Pins, the better your content will perform.
6. Pin at the Right Times
Posting when your audience is most active can give your pins a significant boost. The Pinterest algorithm takes timing into account when it decides which content to show.
How to find your best times to pin:
- Use Pinterest Analytics to see when your audience is online and engaged.
- Use scheduling tools like Tailwind to plan your pins and get them out at peak times for maximum visibility.
Pro Tip: Don’t over-schedule! It’s better to be intentional with fewer, high-quality pins than flood your audience with content they won’t engage with.
7. Leverage Group Boards and Communities
While the algorithm loves relevant, high-quality pins, it also loves engagement. One way to increase engagement is by posting to group boards and Pinterest communities.
What to do:
- Find high-engagement group boards in your niche and consistently post valuable content to them.
- Participate in Pinterest Communities by contributing your knowledge, answering questions, and sharing relevant pins.
The more your content gets shared and engaged with, the more likely Pinterest is to prioritize it in the feed.
Time to Take Action
Beating the Pinterest algorithm isn’t about following the same tired advice. You need to think strategically and stay ahead of the curve. By focusing on quality pins, using video, tapping into Pinterest’s AI, and being consistent with your pinning, you’ll see your efforts pay off.
Want to take your Pinterest game to the next level? Download my free affiliate marketing guide, join my Ballen Blueprint Coaching Group, and start mastering the strategies that will help you grow on Pinterest, monetize your content, and build a sustainable online income.
By embracing these seven under-the-radar strategies, you’re setting yourself up to conquer Pinterest in 2024. Don’t wait for the algorithm to figure you out—use these tips to make the algorithm work for you.
