The Truth About Follow/Unfollow on Pinterest: A Strategic Approach for Maximum Impact

Pinterest, the visual discovery engine, has become an essential platform for businesses, bloggers, and creatives looking to increase their online presence and reach new audiences. One popular tactic that has emerged in recent years is the follow/unfollow strategy.

But what exactly is it, and does it really work?

Let’s delve deeper into this topic and explore the truth about follow/unfollow on Pinterest.


Research by Social Blade suggests that following new users on Pinterest potentially gains new followers in return. This is because when you follow someone, they are notified, increasing the likelihood of reciprocal engagement. Moreover, Pinterest’s Smart Feed algorithm displays content based on user interactions and interests, making it a valuable tool for discovering new content within your niche.

However, a study by Hootsuite argues that Pinterest’s algorithm prioritizes user engagement over follower count. In other words, having a large number of followers does not guarantee more visibility or engagement. Instead, creating high-quality content and engaging with your audience is more effective in growing your presence on the platform.

Success stories like @CupcakesAndCutlery demonstrate the power of this approach. Food blogger Mari Smith strategically follows relevant boards and users within her niche to increase her reach and discover new content. However, she also emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balance between follow/unfollow tactics and other methods to avoid appearing spammy. For instance, interacting with existing followers through comments and repinning their content strengthens relationships and builds community.

Moreover, using relevant keywords in board titles and descriptions helps optimize your content for search, making it more discoverable by potential followers. Additionally, collaborating with influencers or other industry experts can expose your brand to new audiences and lead to valuable networking opportunities.

In conclusion, follow/unfollow on Pinterest can be effective when used wisely but should not be relied upon solely. Focusing on creating high-quality content, engaging with your audience, and following relevant boards and users within your niche yields the best results. Follow a reasonable number of users and boards each day to maintain a healthy balance and avoid appearing spammy. By implementing these strategies, you can maximize your impact on Pinterest and expand your reach in your industry or niche.