Continued from page 1
Next, research web businesses that sell crystal and offer affiliate programs. I recommend using Commission Junction or Linkshare. Keep in mind that
sites you select can sell other things, however you’re focusing on just crystal. Find several sites and apply to them all. Most affiliate programs are free. A note to
wise, be sure to read
affiliate agreements and understand their rules. They are not all
same.
Once you’ve signed up for
programs of your choice, pay per click (PPC) search engines are
best and easiest way to sell your affiliate products. You can promote each product individually or you can promote them all by building a website and promoting your website. Again, be sure to read
agreements as some affiliate programs restrict affiliates offering their competition on
same website. This isn’t true for all of them but you want to stay aware.
To get started you’ll need to set up accounts with PPC search engines such as Google, Overture and Findwhat. Research how they work and set up some simple ad campaigns to start. You will also need to research keywords and what words cost
least and are
most effective. This is a topic for another article, however time spent and proper research tools such as Overture’s view bids and search term suggestion tools will help keep your costs low and your profits high. By
way, use each of
keyword tools provided by each PPC search engine; this will help guide you as to what keywords to use. Keywords entered by users can differ from search engine to search engine.
If you choose to build a website, keep your sight on topic. Getting back to our crystal example, keep your site focused on crystal or glassware, don’t throw in pictures or garden chairs. The worst mistake you can make is being everything to everyone. I know; I’ve made that mistake.
Offer information such as types of types of crystal, how it’s made, textures, weight, where it’s made, history of crystal, etc. Concentrate on offering information. If you give people valuable information on something they’re more likely to buy it.
Of course crystal is just an example; you can apply
same principles to sofas, bicycles, computers, toys or whatever you might take pleasure in. Give it some quality thought, research carefully and take your time. If it’s something you enjoy, you’ll enjoy your business.
