Open a new window for affiliate links?

or not....

[workingNOMAD]

For a while now my affiliate links have the _blank in to open the merchant's site in a new window. Next to the link I state that it will open in a new window.

Does anyone else do this? Do you think I am losing out because people dpn't like new windows and like to be in control?

The reason I do it is so my sites remains there in the background making it easier for the visitor to get back...

[Fish_Texas]

I do new windows for all external links...
We work hard for the traffic...so why send them elsewhere with no return?
If a few people don't like it...tuff. :-)
Fish Texas

[Fish_Texas]

P.S., I wouldn't state anything about a new window will open next to the link. If your site content and info is good, they'll click.
Stating a new window will open sounds like a warning.

[centime]

if they have a pop up blocker, think you might lose some

[workingNOMAD]

I dont think pop up blockers work on normal html links or I might be wrong?

[annej]

Based on what I've read about usability I no longer have links open to a new window. I think new windows really annoy users.

[idolw]

everyone uses ff with tabs or ie with tabs or opera with tabs now.
they do not even notice a new tab opened.

i open these links in new windows and feel great about it it. my user can come back to my site for more stuff to click at

[workingNOMAD]

I dont reckon the average web user would open new tabs, sure us web people might but would the average person do?

[annej]

I'd say it's really a matter of who visits your site which works. I had people think the page had disappeared.

[leafgreen]

I vote for keeping your _blank. Because you put a note next to the link about the new window opening, users will understand. For me personally, it saves me the effort (lol) of holding down on the shift key. Anyway, I hate when links go directly to another destination in the same window.

[gamiziuk]

Does anyone know how to code a new "tab" to open for a link instead of a new window? "_blank" actually opens a new window.