Meet Maralee Leflar, a sourdough and gardening enthusiast, who now teaches businesses how to utilize Pinterest properly!
Previously, Maralee ran her own e-commerce business, Willow and Grow, which made wooden signs, shelves and growth rulers, so she has the unique perspective of small business owner and Pinterest Manager.
Now Maralee helps small businesses boost their website traffic by strategically leveraging Pinterest to reach their target audience and increase their profit as a Pinterest Manager.
Now, let's jump right in!
What services does your business offer?
I offer Pinterest Management packages, such as setting up a Pinterest account, cleaning up and optimizing Pinterest accounts, maintaining Pinterest accounts as well as keyword optimization research.
What drew you to Pinterest Management?
I love helping others, I love Pinterest and I love design.
As a new business, are there any goals you have that you feel comfortable sharing for 2025?
I would like to bring in enough income to not only help support my family but to be able to support businesses I admire. By the end of 2025 I want to be working with 8 clients. My goal is to land my dream client, Mint Cleaning and get them set up on Pinterest!
What was the hardest thing about starting this business?
Keeping a positive mindset and getting out of my comfort zone. Pressing send on that email to a dream business you would love to work with knowing that they may not be interested in your services.
Why should small businesses consider using Pinterest?
97% of Pinterest searches are unbranded. People don't care who you are, they are just trying to find a solution. Pinterest helps businesses connect to their ideal client. Pinterest is the perfect platform to grow your email list and drive sales.
What is the difference between the typical social media sites Small Businesses can be found on, like Facebook and Instagram, and Pinterest?
Pinterest is a visual search engine.
Facebook, Instagram and Tik Tok are social media platforms. Content on Pinterest can live on for much longer than social media platforms. A pin can gain traction and generate sales for years to come.
What is the best tip you have for small business owners using Pinterest?
Do your keyword research! The better Pinterest knows you, the more discoverable you will be!
Once you have your keyword research done, utilize it everywhere, from your bio name to your Pin descriptions. A great way to start your keyword research is by going incognito into Pinterest and using their search bar.
Have patience when starting your Pinterest journey. It can take businesses 3-6 months to grow on Pinterest, but it is worth it as the content on Pinterest has a long lifespan. Something pinned in one month can continue to bring traffic and sales for years to come!
People considering starting a business - don't shy away from the uncomfortable things! Comfort is the enemy of growth.
A Personal Note from Siobhan…
While talking to Maralee for this interview, I was reminded of how important it is to not give up when you get rejected. You must love what you’re doing and continue to try, try and try some more!
See you on Pinterest friends!