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Some of my best affiliates are those that had no idea what an affiliate was until we started talking. These are my brand evangelists. These passionate folks make working with niche and unique products so much fun. I do everything I can to nurture these relationships, not just for the affiliate program but for the overall brand and marketing efforts. There is no better marketing tool than someone who is not employed by the brand raving about the product.
Some affiliate managers don’t want to work with the non-technical affiliates. I am far from one of those. With a little preparation and patience, the rewards far exceed the effort. This is one of the many advantages to doing social media along with my client’s affiliate programs. I get to interact with customers on a daily basis.
So here is a quick overview of the points I make with these awesome new affiliates as well as a supportive document that walks them through the process of becoming an affiliate. So whether you are one of those who loves the products I represent or are an affiliate manager looking to capitalize on brand evangelists, I hope you enjoy.
– All you need is a Facebook fan page and some business cards. My brand evangelists are passionate folks so it is important to start them off slow…baby steps. Their first marketing efforts can be as simple as a Facebook Fan page and business cards with the Facebook address. Include an affiliate link on the page and they are off and running
– Who should I promote to? Anyone you talk to? For Cleatskins, affiliates do great handing out cards or flyers to team mates and folks at tournaments. For RKS Workout, it is usually friends, co-workers and others who notice the new body changes or weight loss. For Total Training, business cards can be handed out at User Groups or to friends who say “I want to do what you do”
– Email is a powerful tool. Just be sure your list is all people who want to get your email. All you need to is insert the affiliate link in your email. Do not try to randomly collect email addresses. This will not be effective and is against the SPAM laws.
– What should I say? Say what you are saying to me. Tell folks why the product works for you and your own words. It’s great to get information from the website but the most powerful words are your won
Is there anything I am missing to get started? What are your thoughts on turning our fans into affiliates? How did you get started in affiliate marketing?