Forum Moderators: skibum
I've got some brand-name merchants with lousy affiliate packages (I'm using them for content, another topic maybe). In general, I see the better packages for the affiliate (read: $$) being offered in CJ, Linkshare, and Befree. There are other networks with some platinum brands, but their offerings tend to be of the 3% variety that JamesR has mentioned.
Are you running into the same thing?
Befree is falling down hard on my list, due to lack, or non-existence, of communication.
Linkshare has always been on/off for me. I just don't dig through their mess any more. I had two live merchants up to a couple weeks ago. One changed the "return days" to zero <axe whack> and the other has put their content offering on hold for "testing." <slid over to side of chopping block>
I have generally tried pushing general-audience type stuff, but now I am working on a specific niche. Most of the programs for a tight niche will be found through direct partnering of merchants with no middle-man or third-party tracking mechanism.
Are you going sponsorships, or some sort of "overview" CPA or CPM program?
note - I added "third party" to "tracking mechanism" last post above to clarify. I would never join a CPC/CPA program without stats.
Gotcha. I do niche flat-rate sponsorships with no tracking requirements, it sounded like you were headed in that direction. As for "overview" or collaborative affiliations, I did one once (sorta).... even at $1500/mo it wasn't worth all the endless emails and management. I basically ended up managing their online campaign for what turned out to be $9 CPM.
