Hey DP.. as you can see... the main programs cover here in the affiliate section of DP seem to be Commission Junction, ClickBank, Amazon, Chitika...and errr.. ya know, that other one..lol.. Anyhow... I often find myself looking for independent programs when I find a new niche... I like independent. Now don't get me wrong, I promote plenty of CB and CJ products, a little Amazon.. But I was just wondering, how many people go to Google when looking for products to promote and type in Niche + affiliate program or Product + affiliate program? Peace Jay
As for now, I still stick with affiliate network unless once in a while, a big launch drops by and I will promote it. It is way too difficult for tracking and recording purposes if I were to promote a lot of independent affiliate programs.
I'll always look for independent affiliate programs first. I don't see the point in using a middle man and giving them a slice of the pie if there are independents available.
Hi guys, This is an interesting insight. I always used to think that affiliates prefer big networks and find it hard to trust indy programs. There was a comprehensive thread about inhouseVs external network. We have had to brainstorm whether to set up an in-house for our products and recruit affiliates, but seemed too much of a gamble and legwork.
It depends on the product and the niche you are working in. I use the big networks a lot - CJ, Clickbank etc but there are a lot of great products, which convert well and pay high commissions which are run independently, so I use these too. Interesting point re the trustworthiness issue - I fortunately haven't had any problems to date, I guess that if there were issues with payment, the program would very quickly get a bad rep in forums such as DP?
I always try to find independent affiliate programs. The advantages are: 1. They allow direct linking while CJ, CB do not. 2. You and a merchant can consider the most convenient payout methods, not just dumb checks sent out on a monthly basis. - Fred
We are launching our affiliate program on Affiiate Advantage which is no where as big as CJor TD but is more hands on and approachable. They allow us ( as a merchant) much more flexibility and better comms with affiliates. We are looking for good affiiates at the moment. So all suggestions welcome.
JayXtreme, I agree with that google observation of yours. Personally, I actually prefer the independent programs
I use both. Only failure was eroticy. I do for Trienta, shareasale, affiliatebot, click2 sell and other independent programs like fling etc. Check my blog for details at second signature link.
I prefer working with those middle sites because it is much safer. I don't know if the independent sites will do pay me for my hard work.
Independent programs are always reliable. Many of them don't even pay you.. so be careful when choosing one.
Hi, As a merchant we use Webgains, Pepperjam, Silvertap etc. I am setting up an independant service as I want to be able to offer more services. Other than prompt payment, which is a given, what other benefits would Affiliate partners look for so I can build these into my dev plan. Cheers, Martin
I run a few things through independent offers. The biggest problem is the networks tend to filter out a fair bit of BS coming from some merchants, so you gotta be careful on who you run with.
I started with independent programs back in the years myself as I am not from USA and had issues with approvals. So I found independent programs, and guess what - they often had better support, better resources and more importantly an extra lager size commissions! But yes, you have to be careful and look around before jump on any program. Common sense helps and also checking on forums is a good idea to run with.