Ever wonder why some pins go viral and others just… sit there? It’s all about the Pinterest algorithm! Once you understand how it works, you can get more eyes on your pins, grow your audience, and actually see results from the time you spend on Pinterest. Let’s break it down in a way that actually makes sense.
What the Pinterest Algorithm Does
The algorithm decides which pins show up in people’s home feeds, search results, and related pins. Its goal is to show users content that is helpful, inspiring, and relevant. The more Pinterest thinks your pin matches someone’s interests, the more it will show it to new people.
Basically, Pinterest is playing matchmaker between your pins and the people who will love them.
How Pinterest Decides What’s Relevant
Pinterest looks at a few key things to figure out which pins to show:
- Pin quality – Bright visuals and clear text overlays get noticed.
- Pin description – Keywords in your title and description help Pinterest understand what your content is about.
- Engagement – Pins that get clicks, saves, or shares are seen as more valuable, so Pinterest shows them to even more people.
- Your profile activity – Active accounts that pin consistently and have organized boards tend to get a boost.
Even if you’re new, Pinterest can show your pins if they’re high-quality and relevant. That’s the cool part. Anyone can get traffic!
Keywords Are Hugely Important
Pinterest is basically a visual search engine. That means keywords are super important. Add them naturally in your pin titles, descriptions, and board names. Think about what your audience would actually type into the search bar, and use those words.
Engagement Matters
Engagement is huge. The more people save or click your pins, the more Pinterest will share them with new users. That’s why creating helpful, inspiring, or entertaining pins pays off. Make pins people actually want to interact with, and Pinterest will reward you.
Freshness and Consistency
Pinterest loves fresh content. New pins get a boost compared to repins. Pin consistently, keep your boards active, and you’ll stay visible in people’s feeds.
Tips to Work with the Algorithm
- Use bright, vertical images that pop in the feed
- Add clear, descriptive keywords in titles and descriptions
- Pin consistently, even if it’s just a few pins a day
- Make pins that people will want to save or click
- Organize boards by topic to help Pinterest understand your content
FAQ
Do I need a huge following to get traffic?
Nope! Pinterest cares more about relevance and quality than follower count. Even brand-new accounts can get a lot of impressions if your pins are strong.
How often should I pin?
Consistency matters more than pin volume. A few times a day or a few times a week keeps your account active and signals Pinterest that your content is valuable.
Final Thoughts
The Pinterest algorithm is here to connect people with content they’ll actually enjoy. Once you understand how it works and start creating pins with quality, keywords, and engagement in mind, you can get your content in front of the right audience and start growing your account for real.
If you want help managing your Pinterest account, creating pins, and working with the algorithm to get results, I can take care of it for you. Check out my Pinterest management services here.
Prefer to DIY your marketing? Check out my Pinterest course to grow your Pinterest account!
