Affiliate ~ in the world of online advertising ~ is a content creator (such as a blogger and social media influencer) who takes part in Affiliate Marketing programs.
An affiliate marketing program is a business relationship between one party that has a product or service for sale and a content creator who has cultivated a relationship with an audience the first party would like to reach.
The practice benefits my audience in two ways!
- Easily find vetted, relevant products and services offered by a trusted source
- Without additional expense to you, you can support the work of a content creator you like (hopefully)
Here’s how it works.
Good folks, such as yourself, visit a content site such as a webpage or social post.
The content is created by someone like me (or by anyone anywhere on the scale of sole proprietor to a ginormous company) about a topic that interests us and, we hope, you.
A related advertisement is placed on the content creator’s site, with a link to the advertiser’s webpage.
Should you choose to purchase from the advertiser, a commission (at no additional charge to you) will be paid to the content creator for the lead.
It’s a transaction similar to traditional commissions paid in other industries. Only it’s online and you might not even realize it’s happening. Content creators, however, are required by law to tell you when affiliated links appear on their platforms. Then you can choose how you want to proceed.
One point to keep in mind? If you make a purchase, it won’t cost you any extra to use the link.
And it may even save you money!
Plus, it compensates the writer / illustrator / photographer who freely brought you information and/or entertainment. Woohoo!
I do not collect any personal data from my readers, unless you opt in to my email list (I’ll ask for your first name and email address) or if you comment on any of my posts (this also requires your email address). Find more on my privacy policy here.
Spotting Affiliate Links
Using examples you might happen upon on my website Texans Touring, here are three types of affiliate links.
Embedded Copy Link
Affiliate links can be embedded in the copy you read, like this…
Texans Touring LONDON is a travel guide, planner and journal, packed with ideas, suggestions and wide open spaces to make notes and doodles.
When you click on one of these hot links, you’ll be transported to the vendor’s website. Read more about the product and place an order. The particular link leads to Amazon.com and the offering is my paperback book.
Specific Product or Service Graphic
Links like this one, typically provided by the advertiser, contain pretty pics and/or flashy, on-brand fonts and logos. They offer specific products or services. Sometimes these ads have a limited time offer.
Say you’re reading an article about fun things to do in London. Suddenly, you become interested in learning more about the London Eye! Wouldn’t it be super convenient if there was a pretty link that led you directly to the company’s website?
Bob’s your uncle!*
*British slang for “There you have it!”
This link takes you away from the content creator’s site (in this case, this one). If you make a purchase, I’ll receive a small commission, at no additional expense to you.
Company Graphic
Another type of affiliate marketing link is a graphic like this, that is simply the name of the advertiser. Clicking on this link, will take you to an advertiser’s home page. Not to a specific product or deal.
If you’re not familiar with Get Your Guide, they offer an extensive search engine for deals on tours, excursions and admission to fun things. I’ve found some great deals using this site and app.
These three examples are the different ways I use affiliate links across my websites.
Researching and writing blogs, as well as maintaining a website, takes time and money. By pursuing affiliate relationships with valued advertisers, I can provide a cool, affordable Reader Supported experience.
Thanks for reading this far! If you have any questions, please drop me a comment.