Meanwhile they do nothing to promote them. Having lots of affiliates is good, but having lots of successful affiliates is even better. No Guidance, No Training, No Activity With many affiliate programs, you never hear from them again after signing up. Sales training is critical to success. Without training, affiliates will do whatever they want, which wastes time and money.
Some affiliate programs drive people to a shopping section filled with thousands of items for sale.
The overwhelming volume of choices undermines sales. By endorsing a website, and driving the consumer to a single purchase decision, affiliate programs work. Affiliate programs are reshaping banner ad space and Internet merchandising. If done correctly, a company can reduce marketing costs, test quickly, and set up a vast network of affiliated sites for little investment. M. Declan Dunn is a Web publisher, sales trainer, online designer and Internet consultant.