Hello From UK Webmaster

[Truegho]

Hi everybody,

As an affiliate of Rosalind's and the Webmaster of two sites (a third on the way), I would just like to say that I have just joined the forum and would like to say a big "Hello" to everybody.

I agree that the affiliate game is hard - REALLY hard - and that you have to be really lucky and know your craft well in order to earn a decent income from the Internet. Take my True Ghost Stories site, for example.
Since its launch last year, my site has been growing steadily, and is now attracting around 170 unique visitors per day. However, despite this surge in traffic, I have only made a few pounds from the Amazon ghost books and dvds which I sell from the site. As you can imagine, this has caused me intense frustration and disappointment.

It seems that nobody wants to buy ghost books and dvds from websites, despite the popularity of TV shows like MOST HAUNTED and DEREK ACORAH'S GHOST TOWNS. I really have tried EVERYTHING to boost my sales. I honestly do not know what to do to attract more people towards clicking on the links to buy.

Do you think I may have picked the WRONG subject in true ghost stories?

Kind regards,
The Webmaster
www.trueghoststories.co.uk

[Rosalind Gardner]

Hello Truegho,

I haven't done the research to know how much a market there is for ghost stories, so can't advise whether or not it's the 'right' or 'wrong' topic.

However, a quick peek at your site and I do immediately see a couple of problems.

First, there's white lettering on a black background which is all but impossible for anyone other than a ghost to read.

Secondly, I see a bunch of DVD cover labels at the bottom of the homepage. They all go directly to Amazon, rather than to a review page. As an affiliate you need to write reviews and product endorsements to convince folks to buy.

I see a 'sexy Valentine' ad... not sure what that has to do with ghost stories. It's important that your site be relevant at all times.

Those are a few ideas to help you along, but the first thing I would do is go back and review your market.

Cheers,
Rosalind

[Truegho]

Hi Rosalind,

Thanks for your comments. Your points were appreciated and taken. One thing I would say though is this: I can't understand why quite a few people now, including yourself, of course, have expressed their disapproval of a "white text on black background" layout. The truth is that most of the ghost/paranormal sites DO use this feature, as it evokes the atmosphere of spookiness and all things supernatural. I could not imagine a ghost site with, say, a garish red background or similar flamboyancy. So if my current layout is not to people's liking, I honestly do not know what would be.

Anyway, thanks again for your reviews.

All the best,
Alan
www.trueghoststories.co.uk

[elanvital]

Although I am an enthusiast near (although not in) your ghost story demographic, I actually am very familiar with the kinds of sites you are talking about. Acually, I find that the black background sites come off, especially with that thick large font as though they were done by someone at home. This doesnt inspire credibility. The colors look like haloween candy and the whole thing not spooky.... Perhaps if you are having a block about the design or ideas you could consult a designer who could help you to revise.

I agree with Rosalind, just listing products is not adding to the dialogue about ghosts. Have you considered interviewing some of these experts? Or incorporating more of a dialogue with your audience?
Kaspar