subject: Recruiting Affiliates - Communicating Successfully And Effectively [print this page] Affiliate networks are the fastest, most cost efficient way for an online business to grow. The trick is to find the right affiliates. Many merchants believe that the more affiliates they have, the more profitable they will be. This is not entirely true. Many affiliates will be able to increase the traffic to your site. Recruiting affiliates that already drive traffic to their sites will expand your customer base, increase traffic and help improve profits. This has a positive effect on brand reputation. These affiliates often begin to recruit their own affiliates, which further increases profits for all parties involved.
Recruiting affiliates can be tricky. The most common method is through email. However, if it is not done correctly it will be considered spam. It may go directly to a junk mailbox and be deleted, or the hosting service may decline to deliver them. Random, mass emails often violate spam laws, which leave you open to a lawsuit. The best way to email is by using a specifically targeted list. The information in the email should contain answers to questions that you would want answered if you were receiving it. Be specific and include contact information to further differentiate yourself from the spammers.
When recruiting affiliates, it is important to take the time and build a relationship with them. These are the people that are building your business and it is worth the time to train them on the techniques to successfully sell your products. Provide them with the tools and knowledge to attract their own affiliates by using blogging and social media platforms. Many affiliates are participants in several programs. Show them the benefits of promoting your products versus the others they may represent. Promotions, coaching and bonuses are all used to motivate program members. Create easy to use marketing materials that they can very easily customize.
Email templates, newsletters, and blog formats are all part of successful marketing plans, but not all associates will know how to use them. Give them the tips to correctly optimize their sites to take advantage of search engine marketing. Provide guidance on when and how to successfully use banner ads. Teach them what they need to know about forum marketing and writing effective press releases. Stay in touch with your affiliates and remain accessible in case they have questions. This will keep them motivated to market and sell your products.
Are you ready to get started? Now is the best time to take action and get started today!
