Affiliate Success Checklist
Charlie Page
You have probably heard that you have to be in 'affiliate programs' to get ahead on the Internet. We all hear about people making huge incomes being a 'super affiliate' and how these programs are the greatest thing since sliced bread.
But what IS an affiliate program and can we really make any money with them? Sometimes it's very confusing.
To help clear up that confusion, following are some basic definitions along with a checklist that is useful when examining any program.
What Is "Being An Affiliate"?
Being an affiliate simply means that you sell someone else's product and earn a commission when you do so.
Webster's Dictionary defines the word 'affiliate' this way...
Affiliate: [verb] To associate as a member <affiliates herself with the local club>
That's exactly correct. When you become an affiliate you are associating with the product or service you will be selling. You are loaning them your reputation. Don't forget that.
Every email you send, every contact you make, reflects on you. And the company's action will reflect on you as well, so choose wisely.
So, being an affiliate is simply a fancy Internet way of saying that you are going to be a commissioned salesperson.
Does It Really Work?
Yes, it does. It is true that you can make very good money with affiliate programs, but it is not automatic. You must still understand the process of marketing and do the work. And it's not always quick. But if you choose great programs, do some of the work (and take advantage of the tools they offer) you can grow a powerful income in a short period of time.
It's equally true that you can waste tons of time and money on them and your reputation can suffer if you don't choose carefully.
Here is my checklist for choosing affiliate programs. I hope it works for you too.
Affiliate Success Checklist
1. Make sure the product being offered matches you. If your passion is embroidery, you probably won't do too well with car parts sites. Stick with what you know at first and, once you learn how to promote on the Internet, move on to different products.
2. Check it out. Don't just jump in because it's easy. Ask yourself this question; is the product or service you are affiliating with something you would bring to your best friend? If not, you may want to keep looking.
