So you wanna make some extra cash online but don't feel like starting a whole blog or building an email list from scratch? Girl, let me tell you about Pinterest affiliate marketing – it's basically the lazy person's dream come true (and I mean that in the best way possible!).
With like 450 million people scrolling Pinterest every month looking for their next obsession, you'd be crazy not to jump on this train. Plus, unlike Instagram where your post dies in 24 hours, Pinterest pins can keep bringing you money for literally YEARS. It's like the gift that keeps on giving!
Why Pinterest is Basically Perfect for This Stuff
Okay, here's the thing – Pinterest isn't really social media. It's more like Google's cooler, more visual cousin. When people hop on Pinterest, they're not just mindlessly scrolling (well, maybe a little) – they're actively hunting for stuff to buy, DIY projects to tackle, or dreams to plan.
Here's why I'm obsessed with Pinterest for affiliate marketing:
- People are literally window shopping 24/7
- Most users are already in "shopping mode"
- You can whip up pins super easily (hello, Canva!)
- You don't need a million followers to make bank
Seriously, I've seen people with like 100 followers make more money than influencers with thousands. It's wild!
Step 1: Set Up Your Business Account (It's Free, Don't Worry!)
First things first – get yourself a Pinterest Business Account. It's totally free and gives you all the fancy analytics so you can see what's actually working.
Pro tip: Don't use a selfie as your profile pic (I learned this the hard way). Go for something clean and professional, and write a bio that actually tells people what you're about. Something like "Obsessed with finding amazing beauty deals under $20 | All links are affiliate" works perfectly.
Step 2: Pick Your Lane and Stick With It
I know, I know – you probably have interests in like 47 different things. But trust me on this one, you gotta pick a niche and really own it. Pinterest loves when you stay in your lane!
The money-making niches that are killing it right now:
- Home décor (everyone's always redecorating something)
- Beauty & skincare (because who doesn't love a good serum?)
- Health & wellness (the fitness girlies are LOYAL)
- Personal finance (helping people save money while you make money – genius!)
- DIY & crafts (Pinterest's bread and butter)
- Fashion (but make it affordable)
Just make sure whatever you pick actually has affiliate programs you can join. No point falling in love with a niche that doesn't pay!
Step 3: Join Some Affiliate Programs (The Fun Part!)
Time to get those affiliate links! Here are my go-to programs that actually welcome Pinterest traffic:
- Amazon Associates (literally everything under the sun)
- RewardStyle/LTK (perfect for fashion and home stuff)
- ShareASale (tons of different brands)
- CJ Affiliate (some really good paying programs)
- Etsy Affiliate Program (for all the handmade lovers)
Apply to whatever matches your vibe. Some approve you instantly, others take a few days. Don't stress if you get rejected initially – just keep applying!
Step 4: Design Pins That People Actually Want to Click
You don't need to be the next Picasso here. Canva is your best friend and has templates that'll make you look like a pro in about 5 minutes.
What makes people stop scrolling and start clicking:
- Bright colors that pop (Pinterest loves a good neon moment)
- Text that's actually readable (shocking concept, I know)
- Headlines that make people curious ("5 Amazon Finds That Changed My Life")
- Your logo somewhere (gotta build that brand recognition)
- A clear call-to-action like "Tap to shop this look!"
Step 5: Write Descriptions That Pinterest's Algorithm Will Love
Pinterest is basically Google in disguise, so you gotta speak its language. Use keywords that people are actually searching for!
When writing your pin descriptions:
- Throw in those juicy keywords naturally ("best drugstore mascara for sensitive eyes")
- Keep it conversational – write like you're texting your bestie
- Add a few hashtags, but don't go crazy (like 3-5 max)
Here's what I mean: "Okay but seriously, these $12 Amazon makeup brushes are better than my expensive ones and I'm not even mad about it 😠Perfect for beginners! #amazonfinds #makeupbrushes #budgetbeauty"
Step 6: Add Your Links the Right Way
When you're uploading your pin, paste that affiliate link right into the "Destination Link" box. Easy peasy!
But here's the important part – you HAVE to tell people it's an affiliate link. I usually just add something like "This post contains affiliate links" in my description. It's not just nice, it's legally required, so don't skip this step!
Also, some programs (looking at you, Amazon) have specific rules about where you can use their links. Just give their terms a quick read so you don't get kicked out.
Step 7: Keep Showing Up (Even When You Don't Feel Like It)
Here's where most people mess up – they post like 3 pins, don't see immediate results, and give up. Don't be that person!
Aim for posting 1-3 fresh pins every day. I know it sounds like a lot, but once you get in a rhythm, it's actually pretty chill. Use Tailwind to schedule everything in advance – it's a game changer.
Keep an eye on what's getting clicks and make more of that. Pinterest will literally tell you what's working if you just pay attention to your analytics!
Real Talk: This Isn't a Magic Money Button
Look, I'm gonna keep it 100 with you – Pinterest affiliate marketing isn't some get-rich-quick scheme. You're not gonna quit your day job after one week (sorry to burst that bubble).
BUT, if you stick with it and actually show up consistently, it can be an amazing source of passive income. I know people making thousands every month just from Pinterest, and they started exactly where you are right now.
Pick your niche. Post regularly. Help people find cool stuff they actually want to buy. And remember – you don't need to be some mega-influencer to make this work. You just need to be willing to put in the work consistently.