Pinterest vs Instagram: Where to Market Your Business
At first glance, Pinterest and Instagram might seem really similar since they're both visual platforms. While they do have some similarities, they’re actually very different and serve unique purposes. Let’s compare Pinterest vs Instagram and figure out which is best for marketing your creative business!
The Differences of Pinterest vs Instagram
The biggest difference between Pinterest and Instagram is that Pinterest isn’t technically a social media platform (yep, you heard that right). It’s a visual search engine like Google! That means it runs on SEO and keywords. To get your content seen, you’ll need to use the words and phrases that your target audience is typing into the Pinterest search bar.
Pinterest is also a set-it-and-forget-it platform. You can bulk schedule your content for the entire month without needing to log in daily. There’s no need to engage with others, and your follower count doesn't really matter. Your content will be shown to the right people with the right keywords (sounds like a dream, right?).
Users on the platform are there to save, plan, and shop. According to Pinterest, the main reason Gen Z uses the platform is to find information about products or brands. That's huge for us business owners! Plus, 96% of top searches are unbranded, meaning Pinners are open to new ideas. Users don’t know who you are, and don’t care! You just need valuable content that speaks to them.
Instagram, on the other hand, is more for entertainment and community. As a brand, Instagram is an amazing platform for fostering community, growing a following, and showcasing your personality. By showing up on stories and engaging with others, you build trust while connecting with those who share similar values and interests.
Since Instagram is a social platform, you need to be, well, social. Your growth relies heavily on engagement, DMs, and ongoing interaction. While this is a valuable strategy, it can feel pretty exhausting to maintain.
Repurposing Content
With so many platforms and endless ways to market your business, repurposing your content is a must.
On Instagram, this usually looks like turning your content ideas into multiple formats, like Reels, carousels, stories, etc.
Pinterest is especially great for repurposing the content you already have. Long-form content like blog posts, portfolio pages, and resources can be turned into tons of pin graphics that perform really well on Pinterest. You can also repurpose your Reels and Tiktoks into video pins.
The most important thing to keep in mind with Pinterest is that you need to provide value. Users are searching for solutions to their problems, so your pin needs to link back to helpful content that gives them even more value. This is why I love combining Pinterest and blogging for a sustainable marketing strategy. (Check out my Pinterest and blogging services here!)
Pinterest vs Instagram: Which is best?
So, which is better for your business, Pinterest vs Instagram? Both have their pros and cons, and the best choice depends on your business goals.
If you’re a newer business owner, Instagram is probably the best place to start. You can quickly get content out there and engage with your ideal clients for some quick wins.
If you want a long-term strategy that brings in leads while you focus on your business, Pinterest is your best bet.
Both Pinterest and Instagram are parts of a well-rounded marketing strategy. I rave about Pinterest because of the freedom it provides. You can focus on your clients and living your life while Pinterest works quietly in the background. Instagram is powerful for connection, and I absolutely recommend it, but with Pinterest working for you, you no longer have to show up on stories every day or pump out endless Reels (unless you want to!). That’s the key. I love both platforms, but my goal is to provide you with that freedom. (Check out my done-for-you services here!)
Final Thoughts
I hope this gave you clarity on Pinterest vs Instagram for marketing your business. As a creative, your time should be spent creating and doing more of what you love. Your content deserves more than 24 hours of attention!
If you’re ready to use Pinterest but don’t know where to start, you can book a Sunrise Strategy Session where I’ll create a personalized Pinterest plan to help you reach your business goals. If you have any questions at all, send me a DM on Instagram! In the meantime, check out more Pinterest tips on the blog.