Pick Your Partners! How to Choose Affiliate Programs
LYNNIE VERSION
Would you like to read this article in more grown-up words, still easy to understand? Jump here.
Hi! I’m Lynnie! Today I’m telling you how to choose affiliate programs for beginners.
Once you start getting fans, you can think about which programs to join. There are THOUSANDS! Let’s pick wisely!
Big shops
If you like lots of different things, big shops are often the best start. Amazon is the biggest! It has tons of products, and everybody knows it.
People buy more easily on a site they know!
The not-so-great part
Amazon’s thank-you money is quite small. And its cookie only remembers you for about 24 hours! If people wait longer to buy, you might miss out. Affiliate link tracking explains cookies.
Programs that remember you longer
Other programs remember you for 30, 60 or even 90 days! That gives you more chances, especially for things people think about before buying. But those brands might be less well known.
The only way to know what works? Test!
Try several at once
There’s usually no limit to how many programs you can join. So try several! After a few months, compare clicks, sales and money in each program’s numbers. Keep the ones that work for your fans, and drop the others.
Brands you already love
Lots of brands have their own programs, big AND small! So you can go straight to a brand you already trust. Look at the very bottom of their website for a link like “Affiliates” or “Partners,” and apply.
Some want lots of followers first. Got a no? Don’t be sad! Others welcome beginners.
Fans in other countries
Check where your fans live! Some programs only work for one country’s store. Then visitors from other countries land on products they can’t buy. Pick programs that ship everywhere, or join several country versions.
This can make a big difference, because content travels more and more, thanks to auto-translation! Reach a global audience explains more.
Read the rules first!
Every program has rules about getting paid, what you can say, and ads. Read them before your first link! Breaking them can cost you your thank-you money.
Warning signs!
Most programs are fine. But watch out for these:
- Programs that want YOU to pay to join. Real programs pay you! Joining is almost always free.
- Promises of huge money, or pushing you to bring other affiliates instead of selling products. Those can be tricky schemes.
- Products you wouldn’t recommend to a friend, no matter how much they pay!
Not sure? Look for reviews from other affiliates. Pick brands with clear rules, contact details, and a good name you can check.
Small and private
Joining is free in most cases! You’d be surprised how little you need. No monthly payments before you have visitors. And most programs never ask to see your face!
What’s next?
The next article lists the setup affiliate marketing needs. Only two of five setup types are always needed! All ten ways to earn are in the book on our products page. Want a grown-up to help choose programs? Go to our services page.
What grown-ups usually ask (and I answer)
Do programs pay in my money?
It depends! Lots pay in dollars or euros. Check first.
Can I join without a website?
Often yes! Lots accept social media profiles.
When should I join?
When you start getting fans with real content.
Is Amazon good for beginners?
It’s a common start! But the thank-you money is small, and the cookie is short.
What cookie duration should I look for?
Longer is better! 30, 60 or 90 days.
How many programs can I join?
Usually as many as you want!
How do I find a brand’s program?
Look at the very bottom of their website.
Do I need lots of followers?
Some programs want that. Others don’t!
Are there step-by-step lessons for starting each of the ten ways cheaply?
Maybe! If lots of people want them. Join the waitlist and you’ll know first.
Should I recommend brands I never used?
Better to start with ones you already trust!
Where can I get help starting on a small budget?
Lynnaider shows you how to start affiliate marketing for free, or for very, very little money. You’d be surprised! And a free robot helper called Lynnaider Compass helps you step by step!
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and should not be regarded as legal, tax, or business advice. Pursuing an online business does not guarantee income; results depend on many factors including the business environment, individual effort, skills, and consistency. Some links on this site may allow Lynnaider to earn a commission at no additional cost to the reader.
