How Do You Use Keywords on Pinterest? A Truthful Guide for Smart, Strategic Growth

Pinterest isn’t just a platform for pretty pictures—it’s a powerful search engine. And like any search engine, success starts with keywords. If you’re wondering how to use keywords on Pinterest effectively, especially long-tail keywords that are trendy and searchable, you’re in the right place.

Let’s break it down simply and truthfully (no fluff, no outdated advice)

Why Keywords Matter on Pinterest

Pinterest works like Google. When someone types a phrase like “easy gluten-free desserts” or “Christian affirmations for anxiety”, Pinterest scans content to serve the best matches.

That means if you’re not using the right keywords, Pinterest doesn’t know what your content is about—so it doesn’t show it to anyone.

What Are Long-Tail Keywords?

Long-tail keywords are specific, multi-word phrases that target niche audiences. Instead of “Pinterest tips,” a long-tail version would be:

• “Pinterest tips for Christian business owners”
• “Pinterest keyword strategy for handmade shop owners”

These are easier to rank for—and attract users who are looking exactly for what you offer.

Where to Use Keywords on Pinterest

To rank well, Pinterest needs you to be consistent. Here's exactly where to put your keywords:

1. Pinterest Profile Name & Bio
   Add 1–2 long-tail keywords in your display name and write a bio that naturally includes relevant search phrases.
2. Board Titles
   Keep them simple and searchable.
   ✅ YES: Faith-Based Business Ideas for Women
   ❌ NO: My Faves 💖✨
3. Board Descriptions
   Use full sentences and include your top keywords—think like your ideal user.
4. Pin Titles
   Don’t be clever. Be clear.
   ✅ YES: How to Have Faith During Business Burnout
   ❌ NO: Finding Light in the Storm
5. Pin Descriptions
   Write naturally but include 2–3 keywords. Add relevant hashtags at the end.
6. Text on Image (Optional)
   While not required for Pinterest SEO, having your keyword on the graphic can increase clicks and understanding.

How to Find the Right Keywords

Pinterest gives you all the data you need—no fancy tool required (though I love using Pin Inspector for deeper analysis).

Try this:

1. Go to the search bar.
2. Type in a phrase related to your niche.
3. Watch the auto-fill suggestions and colored tiles under the search bar—these are popular, trendy searches.

You can also use tools like:

• Pinterest Trends (trends.pinterest.com)
• Pin Inspector https://successwithkimward.com/pininspector
• Ubersuggest or Google Trends for crossover ideas

🚨 Truth Bomb: Stuffing Keywords Doesn’t Work

Pinterest rewards quality, not keyword stuffing. Write for humans first. Your goal? Help Pinterest understand your content while providing genuine value to the reader.

Bonus Tip: Create Keyword-Driven Content Clusters

Make several pins around a single long-tail keyword. For example, for “how to have faith as a mompreneur,” you could create:

• A board with that title
• A blog post
• Multiple pins linking to it
• A short video pin
• A static quote pin

Each one builds authority around that keyword, signaling Pinterest that your account is relevant.

Want to Dive Deeper into Pinterest Strategy?

This is just scratching the surface. If you’re a faith-led or introverted entrepreneur, and you want to actually get found on Pinterest without posting every day, check out my signature course: Pinterest Marketing Academy.

You’ll learn exactly how to research, apply, and scale with long-tail keyword strategy.

If you’ve been asking “How do I actually use keywords on Pinterest the right way?”—now you know the truth: it’s about being intentional, specific, and helpful. The more aligned your content is with what people are searching for, the more you’ll show up.

And when done with integrity? Pinterest can become a lead-generating machine that works while you rest.

This article contains affiliate links and I may earn a commission if you make a purchase, and I'm sure you don't mind but it is the law that I tell you.