Understanding Pinterest pin clicks is essential because they tell you exactly where your audience is in their journey (whether they are just browsing or ready to buy).
In this post, we will break down exactly what this Pinterest analytics metric means, how it differs from traffic, and how to get more of those clicks to turn into real results.
What are Pin Clicks on Pinterest?
According to Pinterest’s official definition, a Pin click occurs when a user clicks on your Pin to view it in close-up.
Think of the user experience: A user is scrolling through their Smart Feed. They see a thumbnail image that catches their eye. They tap it to see the full image, read the description, or see who posted it. That tap is a Pin click.
It is an internal action. The user has not left Pinterest yet; they have stopped scrolling to take a closer look at your content.
Are Pin Clicks Important on Pinterest?
If a Pin click doesn’t guarantee website traffic, is it a vanity metric?
Absolutely not. Pin clicks are a vital health indicator for your account for three main reasons:
- It Signals Relevance: A Pin click tells the Pinterest algorithm, “This content stopped the scroll.” It signals that your visual content is relevant and interesting to the audience, which can help your content get distributed further.
- It’s the First Step in the Funnel: You rarely get a sale without an outbound click, and you rarely get an outbound click without a Pin click first. It is a necessary step in the user journey.
- It Reveals Intent: High Pin clicks combined with low outbound clicks are a powerful diagnostic tool. It tells you your image is great, but your “hook” or call to action (CTA) isn’t strong enough to get them to leave the app.
Pin Clicks vs Outbound Clicks
This is the most critical distinction to make. Many beginners conflate “Pin clicks” with website traffic, but the two are completely different metrics.
- Pin Clicks (formerly Closeups): The user taps the Pin to expand it. They are still on the Pinterest app or website. They are interested in the image.
- Outbound Clicks (formerly Link Clicks): The user clicks the button that leads them off Pinterest to your destination URL (your blog post, product page, etc.). They are interested in the content or product.
Think of a Pin click as someone stopping outside a shop window to look at a display. Think of an outbound click as someone actually walking through the door. Both are valuable, but they serve different purposes.
How to Increase Pin Clicks on Pinterest
If you have high impressions but your Pin clicks are low, it means people are seeing your content but scrolling right past it.
Here is how to stop the scroll and drive up those clicks:
1. Optimize Your Visuals for Mobile
80% of Pinterest users are on mobile. If your text overlay is too small or your image is cluttered, users won’t tap.
Use a vertical aspect ratio and ensure your main subject is the focal point.
2. Use Text Overlay Wisely
Don’t just rely on the image. Use text overlay on the Pin itself to give context.
A photo of a chocolate cake is nice, but a photo with the text “The Moistest 5-Minute Chocolate Cake” demands a closer look.
3. Leverage Curiosity
The best Pins create a “gap” of curiosity.
Show a transformation (Before/After) or hint at a secret tip. If the user can’t get the full story from the thumbnail, they have to click to see the details.
4. Write compelling Titles
While the image gets the attention, the title seals the deal.
Use strong keywords and clear benefits. “Bedroom Decor” is weak. “10 Cozy Bedroom Ideas for Small Spaces” is clickable.
Analyzing Your Data
To see how you are performing, head over to your Pinterest Analytics dashboard. You can filter by “Pin clicks” to see which of your Pins are generating the most initial interest.
Pro Tip: Look at your Pins with the highest “Pin Clicks” but lowest “Outbound Clicks.” These are your “almost famous” Pins. Tweak the description or add a stronger CTA to the title to encourage that final step to your website.
Conclusion
Pinterest pin clicks are the bridge between a passive viewer and an engaged visitor.
While they aren’t the final destination, they are a crucial signal that your content is resonating. By optimizing your visuals and sparking curiosity, you can turn those casual glances into meaningful engagement.
