Choosing the Right Affiliate Network
By: Daryl Colwell, VP, MonetizeIt, the MediaWhiz Affiliate Network
For online direct response marketers, deciding which affiliate network(s) to align with can be daunting. But with a little guidance, the process can be much simpler and far less stressful. Here are three keys to consider when choosing an affiliate network:
Experience in the Vertical:
The significance of finding an affiliate network with experience in your vertical can not be overstated. To determine if an affiliate has the level of experience you are seeking, you need to ask the right questions:
- Does it specialize in one-time sale offers, or are their offers more subscription-focused?
- What are some similar products they’ve worked with and how much success did they have?
- Do they abide by industry recognized and vertical-specific best practices?
It is important to ensure the affiliate network under consideration has worked with the types of products you are marketing, understands your unique challenges and goals, and has the appropriate affiliate base to generate new sales.
Expertise:
Internet Marketing is a rather young industry so it’s highly doubtful you’ll be able to find a forty year old affiliate network to suit your needs. But you can find affiliates with five, even ten years of experience working with pretty reputable clients. Steer clear of companies that do not have a long tenure or tangible track record.
Excellent Client Service:
As for client service, do your research. Make sure your primary salesperson won’t disappear the moment you’ve signed on. Ask to meet your dedicated account manager or client services leaders prior to finalizing a contract. Establish from the start that you want to keep the lines of communication open. At minimum, you’ll want weekly feedback in the form of a report or call with your account manager. Regular check-ins are critical as you move toward the launch of a program. It will ultimately drive increased sales and better results. If you don’t feel comfortable with the people handling your account, trust your instincts.
By aligning with an affiliate network that has vertical expertise, experience and excellent client service, you can expect to drive fairly long-tail customers and improved ROI.
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