Reward or Paycheck? Affiliate Marketing vs Sponsorships
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 comparing affiliate marketing vs sponsorships. Affiliate marketing is way number 2. Sponsorships are way number 7. They’re the two first ways influencers earned money!
People mix them up a lot. But they work really differently.
What they share
Brands pay you in both. Never your fans! In both, the content goes on YOUR page. And in both, you must clearly say it’s commercial.
Both also need trust. If your fans don’t believe you, neither one earns.
How you earn
Affiliate marketing: a little reward per sale
In affiliate marketing, your money depends completely on sales. Every time somebody buys through your special link, you get a little reward. Grown-ups call it a commission. So some months are big, some are tiny!
Our affiliate marketing for beginners article explains it.
Sponsorships: a set price
Sponsorships pay a set price for the content and for your fans seeing it. You get paid even if nobody buys anything! So the money is easier to count on.
Our sponsorships and UGC for beginners article explains it.
Who can start?
For sponsorships, brands want proof that lots of people watch you and care. That takes time.
Affiliate programs are often open to everybody from day one! You join, get your link, and share it right away. Your money grows as your fans grow.
Which is for you?
Just starting and want to earn from your content right away? Affiliate marketing is the more open door. Pick things you really use, and recommend them now and then.
Already have fans who care, and a strong style? Sponsorships can bring bigger, steadier payments. Make a media kit and start pitching!
Or both!
Lots of creators do both. Affiliate links for things they love, and sponsorships from brands that fit. Sometimes a brand even offers both at once: a set price for a video, PLUS a reward for every sale!
Saying it’s an ad
For affiliate links, say you might earn a little if people buy through your link. For sponsorships, label it as an ad, sponsored, or a paid partnership. Use the app’s own labels when they have them!
An easy path
Lots of creators start with affiliate links on day one, since no fans are needed to join. As their content grows, their fans become proof for brands. Then they add sponsorships! And honest reviews for affiliate links become great samples for pitches.
Three oopsies
- Expecting big money from affiliate links with only a few fans. It starts slowly!
- Saying yes to brands that don’t fit. Your fans will trust you less.
- Forgetting to say it’s an ad. For both, always!
A story
A creator reviews hiking gear. From the start, she shares affiliate links to the boots and backpacks she uses. Each month, she earns a different amount.
Two years later, lots of people follow her and care. A backpack brand offers her a set price for one video. She keeps her links AND adds sponsorships!
What’s next?
The next article explains how to get brand deals by bringing people to your page and to brands. The whole module is in the book on our products page. Want a grown-up to help you choose? Go to our services page.
What grown-ups usually ask (and I answer)
Do I need different content for each?
Not totally. Both love honest, useful content.
Which earns more?
It depends! Sponsorships bring bigger single payments. Affiliate money can add up over time.
Which needs more pitching?
Sponsorships. Affiliate programs you just join.
What’s the main difference?
A reward per sale, or a set price.
Which is easier to start?
Affiliate marketing.
Do both need an ad label?
Yes!
Where does the content go?
On your own page, for both.
Can I do both?
Yes! Lots of creators do.
Who pays?
The brand. Never your fans.
Will there be step-by-step lessons for each of the ten ways?
Maybe! If lots of people want them. Join the waitlist and you’ll know first.
Can I start brand deals for free or almost free?
Lynnaider shows you ways that cost nothing, or very little. 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.
