Four Little Steps! How Affiliate Marketing Works
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 affiliate marketing works, in four little steps!
And I’ll tell you about one sneaky cost people rarely talk about!
The four steps
You make content, someone buys through your link, the brand sends the order, and the brand pays you. Only the first step is fully in YOUR hands!
Step 1: You get attention
You post content regularly, in a style that fits your fans and your topic. Short videos, pins, blog posts, tutorials or newsletters!
In SOME of your content, not all of it, you add affiliate links or codes. You get those when you join an affiliate program. Most of your content should just be useful, inspiring or fun.
Step 2: Someone clicks and buys
Someone clicks from your content to the brand’s website. Sometimes they visit a little page of yours first, like a list of your favorite products. If they buy, and the brand can see it came from you, you earn thank-you money!
Lynnaider draws this step with a dotted line. Why? Your content starts the visit, but once the person leaves your page, it’s out of your hands.
Step 3: The brand sends the order
The brand sends the product AND helps the customer. You’re not involved at all!
No stock, no shipping, no complaints about late packages!
Step 4: The brand pays you
Finally, the brand pays your thank-you money, following the rules you agreed to when you joined. The buyer pays nothing extra, and doesn’t owe you anything.
Where your time goes
Look at the four steps. Almost ALL your time goes into step 1: making content! Steps 3 and 4 happen without you. Step 2 depends on how good and well-placed your content is.
Your money grows with how many people see your content, and how much they trust you. Your affiliate marketing niche explains trust!
The sneaky cost!
You’re not responsible for the products. BUT here’s something people rarely mention: you might have to spend money first.
Usually, you have to buy the product yourself to show it, especially at the start. Brands rarely send free samples to new affiliates with only a few fans. And honest reviews mean you really used it!
How to keep it cheap
- Start with products you already have and use.
- Pick a topic where products don’t cost much, at least at first.
- Try digital products or apps with free trials. No buying needed!
- When you have more fans, ask brands if they send samples.
An example
Imagine a home cook who posts short recipe videos three times a week. In one video, she uses a knife she bought last year. She adds her affiliate link, and says clearly that it’s an affiliate link.
Someone clicks and buys. The shop handles payment, delivery and questions, then pays the cook. But she DID buy the knife herself, and made dozens of videos before that one sale!
Small and private
Joining most programs is free! Start with products you already own. You’d be surprised how little you need. No monthly payments before you have visitors. And no face needed. Secret Agent style!
What’s next?
The next article explains how affiliate links are tracked, with cookies and more. The whole module is in the book on our products page. Want a grown-up to help? Go to our services page.
What grown-ups usually ask (and I answer)
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.
How does affiliate marketing work, simply?
You post, someone buys through your link, the brand sends it, the brand pays you.
Do I send the orders or help customers?
No! The brand does all that.
Why is the buying step a dotted line?
Because once people leave your page, it’s out of your hands.
Do I have to buy the products?
Often, yes, especially at the start.
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.
