Since 1999, Shawn Casey has sold over $30 million of his premier media products, services and memberships that help entrepreneurs to start and grow their Internet businesses. He is the founder and CEO of Mining Gold Corporation - a leading provider of premier media products, resources and tools to Internet entrepreneurs. Shawn is also a principal owner of 11 other companies involved in Internet ventures. Learn all there is to know about affiliate marketing at www.shawncasey.com.
Becoming successful with affiliate marketing is usually not something that happens instantly. With affiliate marketing, there is a slight learning curve that many people who choose this business model fail to master. It's more than just slapping up ads on your blog or website or sending people to a sales page. If you want true success, you will find the tips below effective.
Gentle pre-selling works
If you've dabbled in affiliate marketing with little success, try a different angle. Maybe you have been sending visitors directly to the vendor's sales page. Most people do not like to feel that they are being "sold" to, so try a gentler approach. Talk about the need/problem on your blog or website; then gently recommend a product you have found success with yourself. People like to feel comfortable with you, and they like to feel that they are the one that made the buying decision.
Perform diligent, in-depth research before you begin
With affiliate marketing, it's important that you find a profitable niche, the right keywords, and a product that delivers on its promises.
Don't just choose a niche and product out of thin air so that you can get things rolling quickly. Make a list of your interests and hobbies, anything that you enjoy or know a lot about. Use this list to determine your niche. As you research how profitable a niche may be, mark those off of your list that don't seem to be a buyers' market.
Choose your product/service carefully. Use it yourself so that you can make honest recommendations on your blog/website.
Establish yourself as an authority
Affiliate marketing is a real business, so you should treat it like one. Establish yourself as an expert in your field; talk about your niche in your articles and blog posts. Join forums and offer your expertise. People want to feel that you really know your stuff, and you know what you are talking about. By sharing your knowledge, people will see you as an authority on your topic/niche.
With affiliate marketing, slow and steady wins the race!