4. Spread word! Lots of affiliate money stays on table because we do not refer others. If you know other affiliates, send them an email and let them know about your new program. Of course, send your affiliate link id to earn 2nd tier revenue if possible!

To see my favorite affiliate programs, please visit affiliate directory at www.affiliate-directory.us.

The Bad

Because as a publisher you’re utilizing a service, advertisers who also offer a direct affiliate partnership will typically offer a lower commission for publishers who choose to partner with them through a third party network. This is because it costs advertisers money to use services of a third party. Also, without naming names, some affiliate networks have been known for not tracking sales and leads properly as honestly as they could be (which means money from your pocket). Payment thresholds can often be fairly high – a $50 US minimum is common for international publishers. Finally, a payment delay of two months or more from date of a sale/lead generation can occur, as third-party affiliate network waits until advertiser pays them, before they pay you (the publisher).

Conclusion:

In many (if not most cases), having both options of partnering directly with an advertiser or through an affiliate network is not a choice – it’s usually one or other. If an advertiser you like only offers their affiliate program through a third party, you’re limited to advertiser network they’ve partnered with, or not partnering at all. Affiliate networks are not bad programs to use, just keep in mind issues outlined above, and you’ll be making money in no time!