Can You Have Super Affiliates?

In researching affiliate marketing, you have probably come across the term “super affiliate.” Many affiliate managers spend a lot of time trying to recruit super affiliates and for good reason. A super affiliate can turn just about any affiliate program into a success.

A super affiliate, simply put, is someone who can generate a lot of sales. Some people feel that an affiliate needs to make a certain dollar amount in sales before they are considered “super.” It is hard to define this term in dollar amounts as different programs have different amounts as well as different types of programs. Not only that, but program owners have different definitions of success in their particular affiliate program compared to others.

Finding super affiliates is easier than most think. In fact, you may already know of several yourself. Super affiliates tend to have large sites, large newsletter lists, and a nice amount of influence over their target markets. It doesn't take much thinking to know at least one affiliate who fits these definitions.

If however, it comes a bit more difficult in a particular market, it's easy to find a few of them. Simply research a bit. Google can really help with this; just type in keyword or phrase that relates to the product or target market in question. For example, if you are selling an information product on natural remedies, type in such phrases as “natural remedies, “natural cures,” and “homeopathic medicine.”

Take note of the websites that are coming up in your search results. If the same site is coming up over and over, it is probably very popular. Even if different sites are coming up, click on them, and take a look around. Look for signs of affiliate activity, such as ads, reviews, and affiliate links.

Once you have located some affiliates that seem a good fit for your particular program it is time to start the recruiting process. Take note that these people are receiving offers from many other affiliate managers. If you want them to promote your product, you’ll need to make it worth their time.

First of all, make sure your product is something that their target market would honestly want or need. When you make your initial contact with the affiliate, make it personable. Instead of sending a standard form letter, take the time to send a personalized note. Try to keep that first email short and sweet, though, as the affiliate doesn’t have time to read anything super long.

When promoting a digital product, send a sample along with the introductory email. The affiliate will want to try it out before they promote it to their readers. If you have a physical product, offer to send a sample in the mail. This will help to determine if the product is a good fit for their visitors.

Entice the super affiliate by offering them something more than standard affiliates receive, such as extra commission or cash bonuses. For example, if you normally pay 50% commissions, offer 60% or 70% to the super affiliate. The amount of sales they can bring you will more than make up for any extra commissions you give them. Another option is to offer them a second tier percentage, where they receive a commission for referring other affiliates to the program.

It can take time to build up a relationship with a super affiliate and get them involved in a program. It may take time to find them, but keep trying. Eventually you will recruit a super affiliate and maybe more!