How to Start an Affiliate Program?

I'm new to this section. I usually spend my time in the Google Optimization forum.
Anyhow, I own a website that sells small dog products and accessories. I started a blog on my website as a way to build content and hopefully help me in my SERPs. However, I figure I'd try to make some money on my blog through ads and affiliate marketing.

Obviously, I make my money selling my products, so I've never really looked into affiliate marketing. I've read in several posts that Adsense doesn't really make that much money anymore.

Could someone give a good link to read about starting an affiliate program? The different ways people get paid, and the best approach to starting an affiliate program. How to properly track when someone clicks on an AD from your site. (Google Analytics?) Also, how to properly charge someone for the amount of clicks and proving it to them. I'm sure there are lots of debate when it comes to clicks and which clicks should be paid for. Personally, it sounds like the best AD is one that just pays you a flat amount each month. And most importantly, how do you get your customers to want to place an AD on your site? Do you guys email tons of people asking if they'd like to place an AD?

Anyhow, I'm hoping someone could give me some good resources to read and study in order to start my affiliate marketing. Thanks!

Hello

I've set up several affiliate programs, both in-house (cheaper) or with networks

If you're looking for a network, check out Shareasale and their advertisers information. Simple and easy to follow for setting up an affiliate program.

The payment system from my AM group is through CashEngines.
They're pretty small at the moment, so they'd probably be keen to get some new programs in.

What's your budget? I have many sources for this, other than generic systems like mentioned above. I have made 75% of all my money doing affiliate programs. You could certainly call me an expert in affiliate marketing, I know the UPS and Downs, INs and OUTs of what makes a successful affiliate program. PM me if you'd like, I'd be happy to help.

I just saw your reply MadisonSEO, I'm in a similar spot with
mhsiao45. I have started an Affiliate site and now I need help getting subscibers.

I have an idea of what to do but now how to do it, maybe you can help.

I sent you an e-mail as well, not sure you will get it. Please contact me at 310-750-6219
Thanks.

Please check this site for more details on how to start affiliate programs: thumbshots.org/article.aspx?artid=326

Great article , Thanks. My goal is to find people that want to write these articles and reap the benefits. My backend software will give the article writer the links that will give them the commission for anyone who visits the site and joins from the link.

Hello

I am signing up with clixgalore For $1000.00 they will promote your program via email newsletter, Main page banners, etc. This is a big help as it will take about 6-12 months to really get an affiliate program going. You can get less promotion for less $ but you need to invest in your site if you want to really make a go of it.

The fees are about the same as shareasale, but the promotion is a plus in my opinion.

Al

Thanks AL, my web guy is having issues with the tracking link on Clixgalore. I think my thank you page with let people reresh and that's a no, no.

But I appreciate the Clixgalore plug. I was also looking at Sharesale.

I believe that ccbill.com has an affiliate program too. I like them because I have many small companies that use them. I really don't like in-house due to the possible skimming.

Thanks Jritech.

That is a great marketing strategy. I am looking forward for your success.