5 Crtical Steps for Working With Affiliate Programs
Are you a new blogger?
How about an existing blogger?
New blogger with descent content and ready to make some scratch?
Well, most bloggers like to write. And, I’ll go out on a limb and say all want to make money and earn a living.
That brings me to my point: What are some things you need to consider when working with affiliate programs?
Let’s take a look at the top five.
# 1 – Who are You Talking To?
Audience is everything. Does your taget audiance care about the product being pushed? I highly doubt someone reading about knitting cares about the latest Dewalt drill. I know that’s sort of a “master of the obvious” comment…but, you would be surprised how many people try to run unrelated offers on a blog. Treat it as any other conversation. Stay relevant.
# 2 – Eyeballs, Eyeballs, Eyeballs
Yes, the type of offer you run is important, but like the old saying goes, “volume cures all.” The more potential customers you have reading your blog, the chances of a conversion will increase. This doesn’t mean one should go out there and buy the cheapest traffic available, but make sure you’re always trying to increase readership….while maintaining value and sincerity.
# 3 – People Aren’t Stupid
The product you sell will not only dictate how much you make, but will also speak volumes about how trustworthy your blog is. Don’t try pushing off 10 cent County Fair plates. I hate trying to throw pennies for a prize anyway. Basically, Acai Berry pills and Make Money With Google programs are out. Those are so pre FCC Affiliate Regulations anyway. A List athletes are careful what product they endorse. Current and future A List bloggers only promote products they would buy. Don’t ever forget that.
# 4 – Be Honest and Upfront
Don’t make your posts one big link. When using affiliate programs, attempt to let your visitor know what they are clicking on. If it seems the only thing you’re for is raking in commissions, you might as well kiss trust goodbye. Some big time bloggers recommend identifying affiliate links with a simple (affiliate link). Should a customer be interested in the product, most of the time they won’t have a problem making sure you get the commission. Trust can only be gained through this gesture.
# 5 – Don’t Put All Your Eggs In One Basket
Who said you had to stick with one product? Not only do you want your visitors to have variety, but running multiple ads allows for a perfect testing ground. Of course, if your ad campaign isn’t broken, don’t try to fix it. However, even if things are going decently well…try testing something else for grins and giggles. Even Baskin Robbins has 31 flavors.
These are just a few tips to get you started in the right direction…and to keep you on the right path.
As always, if there’s something you would like to see discussed on this blog – or I’m just flat out wrong – let me know. I would love to hear from you.
I will go and say that everything you have mentioned is 100% correct. You have to make the process seem as smooth as possible, work up your visitors up to the point where they will feel they need the product/services.