Your first affiliate program: what to check

This week we're looking at how to choose your first affiliate program and, more importantly, what you should check before signing up.

Your first affiliate program can feel like picking a cereal in a giant supermarket. Start with what your readers already need, then check the details before you add a link.

Start with a product you can stand behind

Look at the questions people ask you, the tools you use, and the problems your content helps solve. A program is a better fit when the product naturally belongs in that conversation.

• Would you recommend it without earning a commission?
• Can you explain who it helps, and who it does not suit?
• Does it match the subject of your site or channel?

Check how the money works

Do not choose by commission rate alone. Find out what counts as a sale, how long tracking lasts, when payments go out, and whether there is a minimum payout. A generous rate is less useful if the rules are hard to understand.

Read the rules before you promote

Check which channels are allowed and whether the program limits paid search, email links, coupon codes, or price claims. Clear disclosure matters too. Tell readers when a link may earn you a commission.

Read the FTC’s disclosure guidance →

Run a small, honest test

Pick one useful article, email, or video and add a few relevant links. Track clicks and sales if the program provides those reports. Give it enough time to learn what readers respond to, then keep, improve, or remove the links.

• Answer a real reader question before showing the product.
• Explain why you chose it, including any drawbacks you know.
• Keep a note of the program terms and your results.

A good first program is one you can explain clearly and promote with a straight face. Start there, and let your readers' needs guide the next choice.

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The beauty of affiliate marketing is that you don’t have to invest the time and effort to create a product to sell.
— Mike Stelzner

Same time next week.

- Carl Davies

PS: Don't forget to view the FTC's disclosure guidance.

Read the FTC's disclosure guidance →