subject: Affiliate Program Manager - Building A Profitable Relationship [print this page] If you have joined an affiliate network and are considering several different programs, you may want to contact the affiliate program manager to ask some specific questions. Find out what the average conversion rate is. Many niche markets are successful in targeting the right customers to buy their products. As a result, their conversion rates are often higher than mass marketed products. Ask about their commission structures. Do they work on a pay per sale or pay per click basis? How much is the average sale? These questions have a dual purpose. First, they give you the information you need to decide whether to sign up for the program.
However, it also lets you get a feel for the person you would be working most directly with if you decide to join the program. In turn, the affiliate program manager will ask you about your plans to promote the products, marketing techniques you employ and how long you have been in business. If you already have a site, they may ask for information about the volume of traffic you attract. This will be the time when you discuss any other products you promote and the niches you are most interested in. Often they will ask about your lead generation methods and the size of your list.
This will give them the opportunity to decide if you are an appropriate affiliate candidate. The affiliate program manager provides the marketing collateral and training materials for their products. They are the primary point of contact with the merchant. Having a good relationship with them is imperative to your success. Starting off slowly, sending leads and planning marketing campaigns will let you see how you work together. It also will give you time to verify that the customers you are sending to the merchant's site are qualified leads. Working with the manager will help you tweak marketing efforts until they become more productive.
Sending them leads that do not convert is frustrating for everyone involved. Ask the affiliate program manager what the other affiliates are doing to increase business. Try incorporating their methods into your strategy. If you have a method that is successful, share it with them. Building trust is important in any relationship. On-going communications from both sides will make the relationship strong. When they are accessible, pay you on time, encourage and motivate, profits increase.
Are you ready to get started? Now is the best time to take action and get started today!
