Choosing an affiliate network

We've pointed out the reasons why you should be working with an affiliate network when you are new to the industry. We'll now try to help you with the selection process. 

Points to consider when selecting a network

Network Requirements - Many of the major networks are newbie-friendly, but not all. This industry has matured over the years and as a result, levels of skill and expertise sometimes determine what kinds of access you'll have. Keep in mind, they want everyone to make money, but they also have to consider quality sometimes to keep building great offers and getting the best talent. When you become a little more experienced, you will appreciate this too.

Number and types of offers available in the network - As I stated before, some networks may specialize in a particular area or are known for being a significant player in a given vertical. Make sure you understand not only what the kinds of clients the network works with, but also what has been the past performance record around those offers, for both the affiliates and advertisers.

What are the payouts? - The way these affiliate networks make money for doing all of those wonderful things they do is usually by making a percentage off of what you are paid as an affiliate. You must ask yourself; are the offers worth the payout?

Payout frequency, methods, and requirements - Let’s not forget about getting paid. You’ll want to know, not only how often they pay you, but what other requirements may be included in doing so. This could mean a minimum threshold amount.

To be clear, that is the minimum balance you’ll need to get a payout during their pay cycle. Weekly payments should be the sought after standard, but that could only be for people that have payout balances of $1000+, so make sure you understand the requirement. Also, what methods are they using to get money to you? Paypal? Bank transfer?

Make sure you know and don’t have any problems accessing the money you’ll be earning. Also remember, more frequent payouts are better for your cash flow.

The Service Level - Now that you have a better idea of what to look for and what questions you need to be answered, make a list of questions specific to your needs.

You’re going to do this to get a better sense of your needs, but also, this gives you a good chance to interact with the network and the networks AMs. How quickly do they respond? Are their answers clear and detailed? Do they seem knowledgeable and helpful? All of this is important when trying to get a feel for the network to see if it's a good match.