When you link to a merchant do you open a new window?

Or do you just make the link in the current window?

[bobster2]

I have been thinking about the way people hate pop up windows and I am worried I might be losing sales.

I have noticed with Tradedoubler that the merchant's pages take ages to load in the new window as well (thats all merchants I use).

Also I use a bit of javacript to hide the real address in the status bar. Does opening in a new window help hide this further?

[ska_demon]

There have been a few discussions about this and I reckon there is about a 50/50 split between those who think opening a new window is best and those that think opening the page in the same window is best.

Personally I open aff links in a new window so the user gets to see my site again if they close the new window or navigate away from the aff site.

I can't be sure, but I think using js to hide your link may trigger a penalty filter with some of the se's. I would use mod_rewrite to hide the true aff URL.

Ska

<edit>BTW welcome to WebmasterWorld</edit>

[Drastic]

On my stuff, it depends.

Tech website where users know how to open links in a new window - forcing this on them will be a pain to them.

Tire kicker type topics, or where you compare different products or merchants, a new window may be a good idea.

One hit wonders - you get a visitor, do a presell and only have one desired action for them - hit the merchant site and make a sale. No need to open a new window.

[ccam96]

You could always mention that the page will ".. open in a new window .." next to your link. Then they'll know what to expect and will be more patient.