An affiliate site is a site that offers merchandise and/or services that are linked to other sites. These products can be offered through banners or through individual items - the idea is to earn commission from clicks that convert to sales. In some occasions, companies offer commission whenever someone clicks on their banner. This is known as a pay-per-click campaign.
Several sites offer an affiliate program right on their site. Usually there is a link on their site where you can submit an application. You simply apply by answering a few questions about your website. Some companies want to see the content of your site before they accept you into their program, while others will approve you automatically.
If you are just starting out and your site is incomplete, don't expect to be accepted. Don't worry, there is an easier way - affiliate networks are here to save the day. Commission Junction, and LinkShare.com provide hundreds of companies that want you to make money for them. Once you become a member (no cost!), you have instant access to these companies who are more than willing to offer immediate approvals without even viewing your website.
There are many ways to approach things, however if you want to run a good affiliate site, there are 2 key elements you need.
1. A Niche. You can easily become overwhelmed with the number of affiliate programs available out there, but if you are to have any success at an affiliate site, you need to corner a market and stick with it. Whether it is clothing, business finance, or computer parts, you should not stray too far away from the main theme. If you are looking to venture into other categories, then your best bet is to run a website for each one, instead of trying to make a mass portal.
2. Constant Updates. It is paramount that the site stays fresh. Always update your products, change your banners, and check your links to make sure they aren't broken. If you aren't constantly adding new products, you can kiss your returning customers goodbye. There is nothing worse than for someone to come to your site only to find out you don't have what you are advertising. Often companies run specials for a few days and then the links are reverted to another part of their website so check your links 2 to 3 times a day.
Some useful tips:
• Use a database: Having an online database will allow you to update your site immediately. Be sure to include all the fields necessary so that you can easily enter your products.
• Products over banners: Individual products will always do better than banners. The conversion ratio on banners is usually around 0.1%, whereas individual products (being targeted) are proved to do much better.
• Marketing: Spend a lot of time on this or everything above is pointless. You need to make sure you are connected and getting a good, reliable name out there, otherwise you will have very little success with your affiliates.