1. Search through hundreds of affiliate directories online and look for comments about it.

2. Ask them how many affiliate they have, and what top earners are making, as well as average affiliate.

3. Give program a trial run - just enough to make a few sales that will allow you to recieve a payment from them. This will ensure they pay as offered.

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 best affiliate program choices, visit Affiliate Directory.

Research web strategies that can help you meet your objectives: www.sitepronews.com has 4 years of archived newsletters and www.goarticles.com should too. Through these newsletters or a web strategist you should be able to determine what strategies are available to you that would work best towards meeting your goals.

Compare your strategies with your budget: Just because you need it, doesn't always mean you have to pay top dollar for it (although some bottom dollar options can come with great stress). Just make sure you know your alternatives. *Be forewarned that prices in web tools (including domains, hosting, auto responders and shopping carts) range all across board. Some things are worth paying for and some things are not. Make a list of 5 options (including FAB's and pricing) for each strategy you need to implement.

Bring this plan to your web designer and ask them if they are qualified to meet your needs: (Make sure you have your list of options (and prices) handy so that you can verify their level of knowledge in areas you need most). Research other designers at same time. Get at least three quotes and take them to someone who knows what they are doing - even if you have to spend money on their feedback - it might be a gigantic favor to you in end.

Now that you are armed with a great plan - your web designer can make room for future strategies that you INTEND to implement and your web marketer (sometimes same person) can ensure that you are optimized to max (regularly) for influx of traffic you need to make site WORK for YOU (not reverse)!

Remember, there is NO reason your website shouldn't make you money!