Now that you’ve chosen the affiliate campaign you want to work with and have set up your websites you’ll need to start marketing the site and attracting visitors. There are three things every successful affiliate marketer does that ensures he’ll always be on the ball, even if he adds a different product or makes a change to his campaign at a future point in time.

Write these down. Save this page. Refer to it often. Here they are:

Focus on Targeted Traffic

Traffic to your website is good. Targeted traffic is even better. Actually, I take that back. Traffic to your website really isn’t good unless it’s targeted (ie. the people visiting area interested in the type of product or service you have to offer). Don’t waste your money buying traffic or implementing advertising campaigns that are going to focus on the general population. Instead focus on article marketing, pay per click, and similar campaigns that will attract attention from targeted buyers.

Build a List

How do you track the individuals who visit your website? How do you encourage them to return? The best thing you can do is to place a subscription box on your website so that you can build a list of names and email addresses. Now, people aren’t going to subscribe just because you ask them to – you’ll have to offer them something in return, such as a newsletter, a discount, or something else they perceive to have value. You’ll then use this list to send a weekly or monthly email newsletter with valuable information your readers can use – and a few links or references that might drive them back to your site to see what’s new, too!

Content is King

You’ve heard it before and you’ll hear it again. Content really is king when it comes to attracting and keeping visitors on your website. Make sure your website is full of articles that are packed with details and educational information. Your content will prove to your visitors that you know what you’re talking about, which will give them a sense of trust that will encourage them to purchase from you instead of the next guy who tries to sell them the same product.

Make sure you include not only informational articles, but how-to articles, product reviews, and anything that relates to your niche. Avoid focusing solely on your product – your prospects want to know you have a strong grasp on your industry as a whole. If you aren’t an expert, use your writing to make yourself into one.

Keep these three tips in mind at all times as you work on your affiliate marketing campaign. You’ll certainly find yourself running a more successful campaign when you have a list, targeted traffic, and excellent content.

Are there any other “must have” tips you want to share? Sound off in the comments!

Good luck marketing!

Sean

Sean McPheat – Marketing Consultant