How to use Pinterest for local business

I had a friend ask me over the weekend if a local business can use Pinterest—if it's worthwhile. My answer to her was, "You can, but it's better for online business." But the more I thought about it, the more I realized—that's actually not true. So, I mapped out everything I know about Pinterest, did a deep-dive research session, and put it all together in this guide to show you exactly how a local business can use Pinterest to grow.

Spoiler alert: Pinterest isn’t just for bloggers, e-commerce brands, or DIY enthusiasts. It’s a powerful visual search engine that can drive traffic to local businesses just as effectively as it does for global ones. And the best part? Most of your competitors probably aren’t using it (yet), which gives you a major advantage.

So, if you're ready to step out of your comfort zone and start bringing fresh eyes (and fresh dollars) into your business, let’s dive in!

Many business owners think of Pinterest as a social media platform, but it’s actually a search engine—one where people actively look for inspiration, services, and products. According to Pinterest’s latest data:

• 85% of weekly Pinterest users have made a purchase based on the Pins they see from brands.

• 97% of Pinterest searches are unbranded, meaning people are looking for ideas rather than specific brands—giving small businesses a fair shot at visibility.

Pinterest has over 450 million monthly active users, and it’s not just global searches—local searches like "best coffee shops in Austin" or "wedding venues in Seattle" are common.

Using Pinterest strategies for local businesses, you can reach an audience that is actively searching for what you offer.

Additionally, Pinterest reaches 83% of households in the age range of 25-54, and 80% of them are decision-makers—a powerful audience for local businesses. These users are actively planning vacations, home renovations, shopping for products, and looking for local services. If you’re a local business wondering how to reach them, keep reading because we’re diving deep into how to use Pinterest for small business marketing.

Many small businesses aren’t using Pinterest because they assume it’s only for global brands or online businesses. But the reality is, Pinterest can expand your reach beyond your immediate location while also driving in-person visits. If your business offers shippable products, digital products, or services that can be delivered remotely, Pinterest is even more powerful.

However, even if you only serve a local market, you can still use Pinterest to attract new customers and get more people through your doors.

1. Optimize Your Pinterest Profile for Local SEO

Pinterest SEO is crucial for being found in search results. Here’s how to optimize your profile:

• Business Name – Include your location in your business name (e.g., Bloom & Co. | Chicago Florist).

• Bio & About Section – Mention your city and service area naturally in your bio (e.g., Helping Chicago brides design the perfect wedding florals).

• Website & Google My Business Link – Connect your Pinterest to your website and list your business on Google My Business for added credibility.

• Rich Pins – Enable Rich Pins so Pinterest can pull metadata from your website, making your content more searchable.

• Use Local Keywords – Optimize your profile with Pinterest SEO for local businesses by adding city-based and industry-specific keywords.

Optimize Your Bio with Keywords – Use up to 160 characters to clearly state what you do, who you help, and where you're located.

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3. How Life Coaches & Wellness Coaches Can Use Pinterest to Book More 1:1 Sessions

Life coaches and wellness coaches can attract ideal clients by sharing value-packed content that leads to booking sessions:

• Create blog posts & pins addressing pain points – Examples: “5 Mindset Shifts to Overcome Self-Doubt” or “How to Set & Actually Achieve Your Goals”. Add a CTA to book a session.

• Offer a freebie – Create a free journal, workbook, or guide to build your email list. Then, nurture leads via email with an offer to book a call.

• Use Idea Pins for quick coaching insights – Share 30-second videos with mindset shifts, breathing exercises, or daily affirmations and end with “Want personalized coaching? Book a call today!”.

• Pin client testimonials & success stories – Show transformation stories from your coaching clients.

• Run Pinterest Ads to drive bookings – Promote a free consultation or exclusive coaching offer to your ideal audience.

• Offer online sessions to increase your reach

By providing value, optimizing for search, and leading users into a booking funnel, life coaches can use Pinterest as a steady client attraction machine.

Absolutely! Pinterest marketing for local businesses isn’t just for online brands—it’s an underrated powerhouse for driving local traffic, brand awareness, and sales. By optimizing your profile, using Pinterest SEO, leveraging local keywords, and creating strategic content, you can turn Pinterest into a traffic and sales machine for your business.

So, if you’re a local business wondering if Pinterest is worth your time—the answer is YES.

Want a clear, actionable Pinterest plan designed specifically for your local business?

My Pinterest Brand Strategy Package gives you everything you need to turn Pinterest into a client-attracting machine—without the guesswork.

✔ Keyword & SEO Optimization to help you rank higher 🔍

✔ Content Planning & Pin Design Recommendations 🎨

✔ A Done-for-You Strategy Guide so you know exactly what to do next 🚀

💡 Ready to create a Pinterest strategy that actually works? Let’s make it happen!

Learn more about my Pinterest Brand Strategy Package here.