some companies i would like to advertise for aren't working with other affilate programs, such as CJ. For instance, I would like to run ads for Yves Rocher (cruelty free health and beauty products), because it would fit part of my site Is it possible to write companies directly and ask to be an affiliate?
Yes, some companies will do that...if you have experience, can prove you can make money as an affiliate, and it will benefit them. Are you sure Yves Rocher doesn't already have an affiliate program. It is hard to find on some sites. I usually check their site map or do a Google search with the name of the company and the word affiliate. Example: Yves Rocher affiliate program. Jim