Navigating the world of affiliate marketing can be daunting, especially when you're just starting out. With countless affiliate programs available, how do you choose the right one? Fear not, as we've compiled a comprehensive guide to help beginners make informed decisions.
Why Choosing the Right Affiliate Program Matters
Selecting the appropriate affiliate program is crucial. A poor choice can delay your success, while the right one can kickstart your affiliate earnings even if your website is still in its infancy. In this guide, we'll delve into the top affiliate programs suitable for beginners and discuss the pros and cons of affiliate networks versus in-house programs.
Top Affiliate Programs for New Affiliates
- Amazon Associates: A pioneer in the affiliate world, Amazon's program is vast, covering almost every product imaginable. It's user-friendly and a great starting point for beginners.
- CJ Affiliate: Previously known as Commission Junction, CJ boasts both big brands and smaller vendors. Their platform provides clear metrics to gauge program profitability.
- ShareASale: Though its interface may seem outdated, ShareASale hosts some of the most lucrative affiliate programs, some offering commissions as high as $300-$350 per sale.
- ClickBank: Specializing in digital products, ClickBank offers instant product delivery and works directly with creators.
- Rakuten Advertising: A major player in the affiliate scene, Rakuten has won numerous awards and is home to over 1,000 brands.
- Impact: A newer network founded by the creators of Commission Junction, Impact houses big names like Adidas and Airbnb.
- Awin: Possibly the largest affiliate network, Awin generated over 182 million sales in 2020 alone.
- Etsy Affiliate Program: A unique platform focusing on handmade and vintage items, Etsy offers a 4% commission on sales.
- eBay Partner Network: Beyond used items, eBay lists over 1.4 billion new products, making it a versatile affiliate choice.
- Fiverr Affiliate Program: With commissions up to $150 per referral, Fiverr's program is potentially one of the highest paying out there. You can sign up here.
Affiliate Networks vs. In-House Programs
Understanding the difference between these two is vital. While affiliate networks connect you with multiple suppliers, in-house programs require direct sign-ups with individual companies. For beginners, networks are often more convenient, but some exclusive programs exist only outside these networks.
Discovering Programs on Reward Platforms
In our quest for the best affiliate opportunities, we have a particular fondness for programs run on platforms like ReferralRewardful.com and FirstPromoter.com. These platforms often house hidden gems in the affiliate world.
A unique aspect of many programs on these platforms is that they're typically listed under subdomains of the main website. This makes them discoverable using SEO research tools. A prime example of this is Phantombuster's affiliate program, which is hosted on FirstPromoter. By leveraging such tools and insights, you can uncover a plethora of affiliate opportunities that might otherwise go unnoticed. Example screenshot from Ahrefs below where it shows several affilaite programs.
Key Factors to Consider in an Affiliate Program
- User-Friendliness: Opt for programs that are straightforward and easy to navigate.
- Support: Ensure you have access to dedicated affiliate managers or support teams.
- Commission & Payment Structure: Understand the commission rates and payment timelines.
TLDR;
Embarking on your affiliate marketing journey can be smoother with the right guidance. By choosing suitable programs and understanding the nuances of the industry, you're setting yourself up for success. Happy affiliating!
