Affiliate marketing was there even before internet came into the picture. It was not invented by netpreneurs. That's what they would like us to believe but they would be telling the truth when they say that affiliate marketing took off like never before with the coming of the internet. In the beginning it was only homemakers wanting to make some extra money who went into this business. But, the success of affiliate marketing has been such that professionals like doctors, lawyers etc., are jumping into the bandwagon. This is because the growth of affiliate marketing has been nothing short of phenomenal. So, if someone wants to sell affiliate products how can one go about it? Selling is not enough of course, you have to learn to make a profit, how can you do it?

If you have some products and want to start an affiliate network, then, let me put a word of caution, it is going to take a long time before you can make a profit. The reason is you have to have many number of affiliates - in thousands, before you can think of making a profit. So, the best approach would be to join an existing network if you want more immediate profits. If you are willing to wait then you can start your own network and obviously your profit is going to be higher but, if you are not then join an existing one.

Joining an existing one is not difficult. There are hundreds of affiliate networks out there. Do not join just anyone blindly. Do a thorough research. There have been many cases of fraud on the net so, be very careful before you join on the net. Never join a network which needs some sort of deposit from you. A genuine affiliate network will not ask for money upfront. They will be interested in a percentage of the profits.

Once you have joined an affiliate network you need your own set of affiliates. Before that you need to have the affiliate software in place. Keeping manual records of referrals is not an option. Next you have to start recruiting your affiliates. It will be tempting to allow anyone and everyone to your group but it will be best if you screen the applicant before you accept them. Some of the screening tips are

• People should have an active site. If they don't have one chances are that they are spammers
• The content of the site should be relevant to your product
• The content of the site should not be made up of ads. Exceptions can be if these sites are very popular with visitors
• Nor porn or gambling related advertisement on the website.
• The content handed over to them should not be misused
• Your products should not be misrepresented on their websites

It is not enough if you have affiliates, you have to be constantly in touch with them. Unless you are in touch with them they are likely to forget you and your products. This is especially true for high performers. These people are likely to be a part of many other affiliate networks as well. So, it is up to you to keep them happy and make them feel appreciated. Don't wait for them to contact you. This is not the place to let your ego come in your way.

The success of any affiliate program depends on the referrals that you get. Whenever you want a referral from someone don't beat about the bush - come straight to the point. Don't generalize. Specify as to what kind of referrals you are looking for. If you have support materials with you it is a good idea to use them. All those leaflets and brochures are not for safekeeping. They have to be used. When describing your business break it down to small pieces. This will make it much easier for people to understand your business.

There are many resources available on the internet if you are interested in affiliate marketing. But before you jump into the fray to start one or join one, make it a point to do your research.