Thursday Press #4: stuck writing your pin descriptions?
[9 SEPT 2021] this tip is so good it basically writes itself!
YOU'VE ACTUALLY ALREADY WRITTEN THIS…
Good morning! I don't have a clever metaphor to lead into today's Pinterest tip; it's just so good I had to dive right in.
I hope you're enjoying your short week (and if you aren't US-based or didn't have Monday off, my condolences!) and grasping for every bit of fall weather like I am.
I promise you're going to want to stick around for this email. It's one of my best Pinterest hacks, and I've saved it just for you, First name / friend!
If you've ever browsed Pinterest, can you tell me how many times you've actually read the description on a pin?
I'm guessing it's not that many. Both the mobile and desktop views of Pinterest hide the description unless you actually click on a pin.
But just because Pinterest users aren't seeing your pin descriptions all the time doesn't mean they aren't important. In fact, they're one of the factors that help your pins get indexed in Pinterest's search engine algorithm.
Here's what we know about pin descriptions:
Users don't really read them
They matter for SEO
So what does that mean when it comes to actually writing those descriptions?
First off, your pin descriptions are 👏 not 👏 Instagram captions 👏
No one on Pinterest cares about your clever anecdote or your bulleted list of really helpful tips. Harsh, I know, but true!
If someone actually takes the time to read the description on your pin, it's because they want to know what value clicking on the pin is going to bring them. Are they going to get a free checklist? Can they find the solution to their specific Squarespace problem?
Tell your Pinterest audience why they should click through to your website, and don't be afraid to include a call to action!
Secondly, your pin descriptions should have keywords in them. Help the Pinterest robots understand what your pin is about!
Still not sure where to start? Well, have I got some news that's about to cheer you up: You probably already have a pin description written.
Hint: It's your meta description!
Now, this email is already getting lengthy enough without taking an aside to break down all things meta descriptions, so here's the need-to-know:
Meta descriptions are short summaries of a web page that should include SEO keywords and entice a reader to click.
Sound familiar? That's because that is exactly the function your pin description should have.
.. which means that if you're already writing meta descriptions for your blog posts and landing pages, all you need is a little copy-and-paste action and you've got at least one stellar pin description all ready to go!
Plus, using the words & meta description straight from the page you're linking to will confirm to Pinterest that your content is relevant to the URL.
So, the next time you're scheduling out your pins for a new blog post, go ahead and try using a meta description as a pin description. It'll save you time, and you might even see better results from it!
How to Write Good Meta Descriptions
Learn all about meta descriptions (and title tags) from friend + client Between the Lines Copywriting!
Pin Description Swipe File + Prompts!
Creativity waning and need more descriptions? Snag my fave swipe file for pin copy here!
Hi, I’m Sarah — Pinterest marketer, former local journalist, and professional oversharer. Thanks for reading this edition of the Thursday Press! If you’re a fan of stories that turn into strategic Pinterest marketing tips, way-too-honest insights into online entrepreneurship, and the occasional cat picture, you’re in the right place.
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