Starting Affiliate programs

[vwilkins]

What are some good Affiliate programs to start out with. I am just starting with my website and knowing this would be helpful.

[Rosalind Gardner]

That would be the hardest question to answer... glad you asked it!

First, you need to pick a topic for your site. The topic should be one that you are passionate about or have a serious interest in learning.

Let's suppose that topic is Cajun Cooking.

If you were doing that sort of site, what sorts of things might you sell?

Let's think about things that cooks might use. Pots, pans, and other cooking gadgets? Cajun cookbooks? Special spices? OK, I'm adding question marks 'cause I really have no idea.

Once you've compiled a list - and added to it by doing some research on the 'Net - then you go to Commission Junction, Linkshare and/or Performics to see which merchants carry those products.

Do more research to find out which merchants you really want to promote. Who has the nicest site, products, best customer service and guarantee? Which one has the highest commissions?

It takes a little time to research products and merchants thoroughly, but in the long run it is an investment that pays off much better than adding affiliates links to the first merchant you come across.

I hope that helps!

Cheers,
Ros

[vwilkins]

The information that you have given me so far has been helpful, and I really am thankful for it. But it just seems a little scary starting a site with high hope and nothing happens. I can say that reading your tips and advise is helping me to get over that hump.

Thank You and God Bless,

Vikki Wilkins

[asr_guy]

Rosalind's e-book covers this topic quite well in two sections: how to choose a topic and how to find affiliate programs to match what you want as a topic.

One key thing is try to be passionate about your niche - it makes the day to day stuff more fun for you too!

Regards,
Peter

[LCarnitine]

oh really?