How to Make Money with Affiliate Marketing on Pinterest (Even If You’re New)

Content Creation, Marketing, Pinterest

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How to Make Money with Affiliate Marketing on Pinterest (Even If You’re New)

Affiliate marketing on Pinterest isn’t just possible—it’s a total game-changer for bringing in extra income while helping your audience find products and services they’ll love.

I’ve been using Pinterest for years (since it was invite-only!) to grow my photography and marketing businesses, and let me tell you—adding affiliate links was a no-brainer once I realized how easy and effective it is. If you’re already pinning content and driving traffic to your site, why not monetize it?

In this post, I’m breaking down how you can use Pinterest to make money through affiliate links—without feeling salesy or spammy. Let’s dive in!

What is Affiliate Marketing on Pinterest?

Affiliate marketing = sharing a product or service through a unique link and earning a commission when someone makes a purchase through that link.

Pinterest is perfect for affiliate marketing because it’s not social media—it’s a search engine. People go on Pinterest to look for solutions and discover ideas. That means they’re already in the mindset to take action when they come across your content.

Pinterest also has a long shelf life. Unlike Instagram or TikTok posts that disappear after 24 hours, pins can continue driving traffic (and sales) for months or even years.

How to Choose the Right Affiliate Programs

Not all affiliate programs are created equal. The key is to choose products and services that align with your audience and niche.

Here are some of my go-to affiliate programs:

  • Amazon Associates – Great for almost any niche because Amazon has literally everything.
  • LTK (formerly RewardStyle) – Perfect for fashion, home, and lifestyle content.
  • Service-Based Affiliate Programs – If you love a business tool (like Tailwind, Canva, or my Pinterest membership), see if they have an affiliate program (I do!)! It’s an easy way to earn while helping others grow their business.

✨ Pro Tip: Only recommend products or services you’ve actually used and love—your audience will trust you more when they know you’re not just selling to make a quick buck.

How to Create Pinterest Content with Affiliate Links

➡️ Option 1: Direct Pinning

This is where you link directly from your pin to an affiliate product. It’s fast and easy, but there’s a catch: Pinterest gives more reach to content that leads to your website (not directly to a product).

Best Practices:
 ✅ Add a clear disclosure in the pin description (e.g., “This post contains affiliate links”).
 ✅ Use high-quality images that match Pinterest’s vertical format (2:3 ratio).
 ✅ Include a compelling call-to-action (CTA) like “Click to see why I love this!”

➡️ Option 2: Indirect Linking

This is where the magic happens. Instead of linking directly to the product, you create a blog post or landing page that talks about the product.

Why this works better:
 ✅ You can provide context and personal insight—this builds trust.
 ✅ Your audience gets more value from the post itself.
 ✅ Pinterest prefers links that lead to helpful content (aka, your blog).

Example Strategy:

  1. Write a blog post about a product you love.
  2. Share why you love it, how it helped you, and what your audience will gain from using it.
  3. Include the affiliate link within the blog post.
  4. Create a pin that links to your blog post, not directly to the product.

This method feels more organic and converts better because people are already in the mindset to trust your recommendations.

Affiliate Marketing Compliance (Super Important!)

Affiliate marketing comes with some legal stuff you need to follow (but don’t stress—it’s easy).

✨ If you’re linking directly to an affiliate product or servicet, add a disclosure in the pin description.
 ✨ If you’re linking to a blog post, include an FTC disclosure in the blog (but you don’t have to disclose it on the pin).
 ✨ Transparency builds trust—and trust = more clicks and sales.

Track Your Results (So You Can Do More of What Works!)

Pinterest gives you all the data you need to adjust and improve your strategy. Keep an eye on these key metrics:

  • Impressions: How many people see your pin.
  • Clicks: How many people click through to your blog or product page.
  • Saves: How many people save your pin (this increases visibility).
  • Outbound Clicks: How many people click through to the actual affiliate link and potentially make a purchase.

If a certain type of pin or product is performing well—create more of it!

TIP:  You can download my Pinterest Analyzer for free to start tracking your numbers here.

Example Strategy in Action:

Let’s say you’re a photographer who loves a certain camera bag. Here’s how you could create an affiliate strategy around it:

  1. Write a blog post about the camera bag—why you love it, how it’s improved your workflow, etc.
  2. Create 3-5 different pins for the post, using varied headlines and designs.
  3. Optimize the pin description with keywords like “best camera bag for photographers.”
  4. Track the results in Pinterest Analytics.
  5. If it’s working well—create similar content for other camera gear you love!

Why Pinterest + Affiliate Marketing Works So Well

Pinterest isn’t just another platform—it’s a search engine. That means your content doesn’t disappear after a day; it keeps working for you.

People on Pinterest are planners—they’re looking for products and solutions. That means they’re more likely to buy when they find helpful content through your pins.

Affiliate marketing on Pinterest is one of the easiest and most effective ways to make passive income—once you have a strategy in place, it becomes a set-it-and-forget-it system.

Final Thoughts: Start Small, Scale Big

Affiliate marketing on Pinterest doesn’t have to be complicated. Start with one or two affiliate programs, focus on creating helpful content, and track what works.

Once you start seeing results, you can scale by creating more pins, testing different designs, and expanding to new affiliate programs.

✨ If you’ve been wondering if affiliate marketing is worth it—this is your sign to start!

Don’t Forget To Pin It!

Pinterest Trends Weekly: Autumn Reset

Content Creation, Marketing, Pinterest, Pinterest Trends

Weekly Pinterest Trends_ Autumn Reset by Jen Vazquez media Pinterest Manager and educator

Pinterest Trends Weekly: Autumn Reset

I’m back with the latest trends from Pinterest, and this week, we’re diving into the theme of an Autumn Reset. Let’s jump right in and see what’s catching everyone’s eye!

What’s driving these trends?

Pinterest is a visionary platform where over 522 million people come each month to find inspiration and ideas. That’s more than half a billion people sharing their goals and dreams!

By keeping an eye on Pinterest trends, you can glean valuable insights into what might be trending elsewhere in the near future. Each week, Pinterest Predicts Weekly highlights actionable search trends across various categories, regions, and demographic groups.

How To Use Pinterest Trends Masterclass

Join me for a free masterclass, “How to Use Pinterest Trends” In this session, I’ll show you how to tap into the power of Pinterest Trends to boost your brand’s visibility and drive more traffic to your content. Whether you’re new to Pinterest or looking to refine your strategy, this masterclass will provide actionable tips and insights to help your business stand out. Plus, by attending live, you’ll have the opportunity to ask me questions directly and access an exclusive bonus.

\Don’t miss out—save your spot today!

SIGN UP FREE

What’s Trending This Week? Autumn Reset

This week, the spotlight is on ways to revamp daily and weekly rituals, set goals, and track progress. Here’s the lowdown on the latest growing search terms over the last three weeks compared to the previous three weeks:

  • Two times increase in Sunday Reset Routine
  • 90% increase in Routine Planner
  • 30% increase in Goal Board
  • 25% increase in daily habits
  • 25% increase in weekly schedule

As fall approaches

There’s also a noticeable uptick in searches for beauty, home, and food inspiration:

Beauty Trends

  • 65% increase in ways to dye your hair
  • 60% increase in fall scents
  • 40% increase in how to use a Gua Sha (A Gua Sha, in case you’re wondering, is a traditional Chinese tool used in facial massages.)
  • 35% increase in low maintenance blonde hair

Home Trends

  • 170% increase in office inspiration
  • 60% increase in household cleaning tips
  • 40% increase in outdoor learning spaces
  • 30% increase in meditation room decor

Food Trends

  • 190% increase in searches for frugal meals
  • 120% increase in college grocery lists
  • 55% increase in snack organization ideas
  • 50% increase in grab-and-go breakfast

Audience Spotlight: Millennials

Gen Y users are focusing on personal health and wellness. Here’s what they’re searching for in the past three weeks compared to the previous three weeks:

  • 65% increase in skincare essentials
  • 45% increase in monthly meal planning
  • 40% increase in inspirational books
  • 40% increase in Meatless Monday recipes
  • 25% increase in cycle syncing workouts

 

Moment Spotlight: Back to Work

With new routines comes a surge in searches related to office style, lunches, and desk organization:

  • Five times increase in fun work outfits
  • 40% increase in easy work lunches
  • 45% increase in casual work outfits
  • 45% increase in work desk organization
  • 30% increase in work outfits with sneakers
  • 25% increase in work from home setup

Editorial Activations and Upcoming Trends

Pinterest is letting people know they can sponsor editorial articles or shopping spotlights to align with key moments. I share this not to encourage creating ads but to inspire you to create content, like blog posts or Pinterest pins, that tie into these themes.

Upcoming Weeks to Watch

  • Sept 30 – Oct 6: Make it or break it with spooky mood projects and movie night vibes.
  • Oct 7 – 13: Spirit Week featuring homecoming aesthetics and Halloween costumes.
  • Oct 14 – 20: SPICE up your life with pumpkin spice and fall travel must-haves.
  • Oct 21 – 27: Snackable treats and routines that are easy to prep.
  • Oct 28 – Nov 3: Sugar rush with Halloween baking and party ideas.

There you have it, folks! I hope this helps you stay ahead of the curve with your content creation. Whether you’re a blogger, marketer, or Pinterest enthusiast, these insights can give you that creative spark you need.

Have a fantastic week and happy pinning!

Here is more information that may be helpful!

Don’t Forget to Pin It!

Transform Your Pinterest Marketing with Autumn Trend Insights by Jen Vazquez Media Pinterest Manager and Pinterest Education
Pinterest Trends 2024_ How to Drive Traffic with Seasonal Content by Jen Vazquez Media Pinterest Manager and Pinterest Education
Maximize Engagement_ Pinterest Marketing Tips for Fall Trends by Jen Vazquez Media Pinterest Manager and Pinterest Education
How to Use Pinterest Trends to Optimize Your Autumn Content by Jen Vazquez Media Pinterest Manager and Pinterest Education
Boost Your Pinterest Marketing with the Latest Autumn Trends How to Use Pinterest Trends to Optimize Your Autumn Content by Jen Vazquez Media Pinterest Manager and Pinterest Education

Pinterest Trends: Spring is In The Air!

Content Creation, Marketing, Pinterest

What are people searching for on Pinterest Spring is In The Air Brought to You by Jen Vazquez Media Pinterest Manager

I’m back with the latest Pinterest trends. This week Pinterest collected insights around the theme: Spring is in the air. People on Pinterest are warming up their feeds with springtime inspiration from fresh foods and florals to beach getaways 🌷. I’m sharing key trends today but check out my YouTube channel for all the trends.

Comment below which trend you’ll use in marketing!

Key trends

  • 2x increase in “spring break clothes”
  • 4x increase in “rainy day hair”
  • 60% increase in “spring cleaning”
  • 2x increase in “spring fling dresses”
  • 95% increase in “bloom bar”

Behind the Trends

Pinterest is a place to look forward. In fact, more than 482 million* people use Pinterest to find tomorrow’s ideas. By observing current trends on Pinterest, we can glean valuable insights into what may trend elsewhere in the near future.

Each week, Pinterest Predicts Weekly highlights actionable search trends among Pinterest users across categories, regions and demographic groups. All search queries link to trends.pinterest.com where you can discover insights and create campaigns around popular search queries.

*Pinterest, Global analysis, Q3 2023.

 

Growing Trend: Spring Break Ahead

One of the funnest vacation weeks of the year is inspiring searches for beachy fits and travel accessories. Growing search terms in the last three weeks compared to the previous three weeks:

  • 2x increase in “spring break clothes”
  • 90% increase in “spring break aesthetic”
  • 45% increase in “beach essentials”
  • 30% increase in “men vacation outfits”
  • 25% increase in “best travel bags”

Category Trend: Ready for renewal

People on Pinterest are searching for ways to be their best self this spring, with routine and fashion searches

Beauty 

(in the last three weeks compared to the previous three weeks):

  • 4x increase in “rainy day hair”
  • 2.5x increase in “spring hair color trends”
  • 135% increase in “healthy skin tips”
  • 90% increase in “opalescent nails”

Household

(in the last three weeks compared to the previous three weeks):

  • 60% increase in “spring cleaning”
  • 45% increase in “diy shower cleaner”
  • 25% increase in “laundry room renovation”
  • 25% increase in “bathroom cleaning hacks”

Fashion

(in the last three weeks compared to the previous three weeks):

  • 2x increase in “spring fling dresses”
  • 140% increase in “spring jacket”
  • 50% increase in “rain boots”
  • 35% increase in “linen shirt men”

Regional Trends: Vibrant eats

From state to state, people on Pinterest are exploring fun new food ideas to match the new season.

Midwest

In the Midwest, fresh and fun ways to enjoy fruits and veggies are trending. Over-indexing searches by Pinterest users in the Midwest vs. the rest of the US over the last three weeks:

  • 135% increase in “strawberry smoothie”
  • 130% increase in “kale chips”
  • 125% increase in “bacon wrapped asparagus”
  • 120% increase in “leg of lamb recipes”

Northeast

Comfort foods get better than ever with spring flavors, which are trending in the Northeast. Over-indexing searches by Pinterest users in the Northeast vs. the rest of the US over the last three weeks:

  • 155% increase in “potato leek soup”
  • 130% increase in “portabella mushroom recipes”
  • 120% increase in “pickled beets”
  • 120% increase in “glazed carrots”

West

In the western states, searches are up for fresh seasonal flavors like citrus and seafood.  Over-indexing searches by Pinterest users in the West vs. the rest of the US over the last three weeks:

  • 170% increase in “grapefruit recipes”
  • 160% increase in “salmon sushi bake”
  • 135% increase in “leek recipes”
  • 125% increase in “salmon tacos”

Southeast

From sweet treats to savory sides, fun food ideas are trending in the Southeast. Over-indexing searches by Pinterest users in the Southeast vs. the rest of the US over the last three weeks:

  • 150% increase in “lemon pound cake with glaze”
  • 135% increase in “creamed spinach”
  • 120% increase in “beet juice recipe”
  • 120% increase in “ham and cheese hawaiian rolls”

Gen Y: Keeping it fresh

New ideas for fashion and home decor are blossoming this week. Growing searches by Gen Y in the last three weeks compared to the previous three weeks:

  • 95% increase in “bloom bar”
  • 40% increase in “colorful bouquet”
  • 35% increase in “pastel color palette”
  • 30% increase in “floral dress”
  • 25% increase in “love in bloom bridal shower theme”
Pinterest Board on Bedroom Inspo

Featured board: Tidy space, tidy mind

Keep your space clean and clutter-free with this aesthetic home inspo. Check out Pinterest’s featured board!

Upcoming Moments: Moments on our Radar

Upcoming moments that are getting planned by Pinners. Take action on the opportunities to show up when Pinners are looking for inspiration, planning and purchasing products to create the moment they love.

March 

  • St. Patrick’s Day: Seasonal trend keyword: “st patricks day cookies”. Dive Deeper with Insights content here.
  • College Basketball Tournament: Seasonal trend keyword: “college basketball game outfit”. Dive Deeper with Insights content here.
  • Spring Break: Seasonal trend keyword: “spring break nails acrylic”.

April

  • Easter: Seasonal trend keyword: “easter crafts”. Dive Deeper with Insights content here.
  • Earth Day: Seasonal trend keyword: “earth day activities”. Dive Deeper with Insights content here.
  • Music Festivals: Seasonal trend keyword: “music festival outfits”. Dive Deeper with Insights content here.

Upcoming Moments: Editorial Activations

Sponsor an Editorial Article or Shopping Spotlight to help us bring to life the moments that matter to Pinners. Learn more.

April 1- 7

No Regrets

Beauty change? Life decision?

Just go for it because YOLO.

Creative thought-starters: spring nails, short hairstyles for women, tattoo ideas, travel aesthetic, Pinterest Predicts: Blue Beauty*

April 8-14

Main Stage

Shine the spotlight on your favorite

acts in music and beyond.

Creative thought-starters: braided

hairstyles, spring nails, Pinterest Predicts:

Hot Metals.

April 15-21

Wedding Week

Celebrating your big day or

someone else’s to the fullest.

Creative thought-starters: wedding dress inspo, wedding hairstyles, wedding guest dress, Pinterest Predicts: Groovy Nuptials*.

April 22-28

Au Naturel

Best the way it is — no additions needed

Creative thought-starters: meatless recipes, sustainable living tips, natural beauty looks, Pinterest Predicts: Aquatecture*.

You can read the trends straight from Pinterest right here.

Here is more information that may be helpful!

Don’t Forget to Pin It!

What are people searching for on Pinterest Spring is In The Air Brought to You by Jen Vazquez Media Pinterest Manager
What are people searching for on Pinterest Spring is In The Air Brought to You by Jen Vazquez Media Pinterest Manager
What are people searching for on Pinterest Spring is In The Air Brought to You by Jen Vazquez Media Pinterest Manager
What are people searching for on Pinterest Spring is In The Air Brought to You by Jen Vazquez Media Pinterest Manager
What are people searching for on Pinterest Spring is In The Air Brought to You by Jen Vazquez Media Pinterest Manager

6 things to focus on for Pinterest marketing going into 2024?

Content Creation, Marketing, Pinterest

6 things to focus on for Pinterest marketing going into 2024 by Jen Vazquez Media

6 things to focus on for Pinterest marketing

Pinterest is the top social media referrer to my website, according to Google Analytics. And here’s an exciting fact – it surpasses even Instagram! As a Pinterest Manager, educator, and recognized Pinterest Pioneer, handpicked by Pinterest themselves as an expert in their Pinterest Business Community, I’ve had the privilege of guiding hundreds of individuals in mastering Pinterest. Moreover, I support businesses by managing their Pinterest accounts, enabling them to focus on what they do best – working in their zone of genius.

Pinterest has changed quite a bit in the past six months, but it’s all for the better! You no longer have to post 20-30 times a day and sharing mostly other people’s content won’t be the key to growing your business. It’s a positive shift toward a more manageable and effective approach.

Here are 6 important tips to keep in mind if you’re thinking about using Pinterest Marketing to grow your business in late 2023 and into 2024.

Patience Wins!

It does take consistent and fresh content to work.  So give it time.  this is the number one thing I hear about Pinterest, “I tried it and it didn’t work”. That’s from people who gave it a go for 30 days.   

Single Organic Pin Type

Pinterest has simplified things by introducing a single organic pin format. You can use graphics (formerly known as standard pins), videos (previously video pins), or a blend of both video and graphics (formerly idea pins). This change makes it much more user-friendly. Plus, every pin now includes links.

Analyze for Success

When it comes to analytics, all metrics on Pinterest are essential. While impressions, follows, and saves are significant, what truly reflects your business growth, not just your Pinterest account’s growth, are Pin clicks and Outbound Clicks. It’s about measuring the impact on your business

Pinterest Management

WHY HIRE A PINTEREST MANAGER?

As a busy entrepreneur, you’re probably exhausted trying to keep up with all the changes and don’t have time to do #allthethings, so you are ready to outsource your Pinterest management and marketing to someone else so you can get more leads and traffic to your website and grow your business or blog to the next level and you can work in your zone of genius!

Schedule a Call

Adapt Your Strategy

Your strategy should be a blend of three key elements: your business goals, Pinterest’s best practices, and the time you’re willing to invest.

Each month, by observing which pins receive the most attention, you can refine your strategy and make slight adjustments to create more of the content that Pinterest, guided by analytics, recommends. It’s about staying flexible and responsive to what works best for your goals.

Pinterest is a Search Engine (not social media)

Pinterest is the third-largest search engine globally, following Google and YouTube, and it’s worth noting that Google owns YouTube. I like to think of Pinterest as a close cousin to these giants. Its primary role is to attract fresh attention to your content.

However, it’s crucial to understand that rarely does someone sign up for a high-dollar coaching program after seeing just one pin. The key is to encourage engagement with your website and get them on your email list. This way, you can nurture their interest and build trust over time, eventually leading to them becoming your clients. It’s about creating a meaningful and sustained connection.

Client Journey Matters

When someone tells you they found you on Instagram, it’s a good idea not to jump to conclusions. Instead, kindly inquire, “How did you discover me on Instagram?” Did they use a specific hashtag (we’d love to know)? Or were they referred by someone (we’d like to express our gratitude)? Surprisingly, about 60% of the time (in my experience), they’ll pause and admit, “Oh, actually, I found you through a Google search or on Pinterest.“

This is all part of the client journey. Your pin might have initially caught their interest, leading them to your content. Subsequently, they might have checked out your social media to learn more about you before making contact. They might say “Instagram” because that’s where they were when they decided to reach out. It’s about acknowledging the various touchpoints on their path to connecting with you.

Summary

To make the most of Pinterest in the year ahead, remember that Pinterest’s slower growth thrives on consistent, fresh content. Use the simplicity of the single organic pin type, now featuring graphics, videos, and links.

Keep a close eye on analytics, focusing on Pin clicks and Outbound Clicks for real business growth. Craft a strategy that blends your business goals, Pinterest best practices, and the time you can invest, with monthly adjustments based on performance.

Recognize Pinterest as a search engine, not just a social platform, to draw new eyes to your content. Don’t forget the client journey – many first find you on Google or Pinterest, then confirm their interest on social media.

These insights will help you maximize Pinterest’s potential for your business in the year ahead.

Here is more information that may be helpful!

Don’t Forget to Pin It!

6 things to focus on for Pinterest marketing going into 2024 by Jen Vazquez Media
6 things to focus on for Pinterest marketing going into 2024 by Jen Vazquez Media
6 things to focus on for Pinterest marketing going into 2024 by Jen Vazquez Media
6 things to focus on for Pinterest marketing going into 2024 by Jen Vazquez Media
6 things to focus on for Pinterest marketing going into 2024 by Jen Vazquez Media