More On Affiliate Programs

More On Affiliate Programs

By Vickie J Scanlon



How do you choose an affiliate program? Simple question, but is the answer that simple? Yes and no. Let me explain.

First things first - If you are just starting out with a new website or blog, do not be surprised that sometimes the affiliate program you are asking to join will say – no. This, I must remind you, is only a temporary setback. And yes, it won’t be the last time you will see this happen. Even after you are established, you may find the “I regret” message occasionally hit your email. You have to say, “That’s okay”, and move on.


Learning By Doing

There are a lot of lessons to be learned, and yes, trial and error on your part is necessary-to find out what works and what does not work. So to begin, let me say....

The most important lesson that I learned is to select a product or service that compliments your niche or theme. Trust me, if it doesn’t fit your niche or blend well with your other products you won’t see the sales you expect. In fact, it may confuse your visitors-and cause a quick click away.

Second, to begin your affiliate search, look to affiliate brokerage firms such as: Commission Junction, Linkshare, OneNetworkDirect (software), or Clickbank (software). These affiliate brokerage firms give you many choices to choose from to get your affiliate business jumpstarted. Granted, the companies that you choose to go with, may still stay no-but the choices are many.

Third, do not restrict yourself to one product or service. Yes, many will disagree with me, by saying – “no, no just select one or two products and advertise like crazy.” When I first began, I thought –okay that sounds good. But…I ask you this: What happens if the product or service you relied on decides to fold their affiliate program? It happens. In other words, do not put all your eggs into one basket. I would attempt to build my affiliate programs up to a minimum of five products or service. Why? If one program slides, you still have other programs to rely on for income.

Fourth, do your research. Always research the programs you want to join. Here are several questions to ask yourself: 1) is their customer service good; 2) how new of a company are they. In other words, think like a consumer, as well as, guard your online creditability and integrity to the highest.

To conclude, as your affiliate business or website grows you may be surprised to find that some affiliate managers will be requesting that you join their program. Take the flattery that they offer, but never blindly accept until you have checked them out.

About the Author:
Vickie J Scanlon -- Visit her site at: http://www.myaffiliateplace.biz
for tools, ebook reviews, computers, security software and products for business, and how to info for the Affiliate Marketer/Internet Marketer. Catch all her articles on her blog- My Affiliate Place Blog.