Your 3-Day Affiliate Marketing Challenge
Affiliate Marketing 101: How to Start Earning Income Online
Affiliate marketing for newer entrepreneurs is an easy entry point. It involves promoting products or services and earning a commission for every sale you make through a special link. I’ve created this Challenge to help you get started quickly and jump start your success. I’m sharing the exact strategies that continue to work for me, almost two decades after I began online in 2006.
What is Affiliate Marketing?
You recommend products you trust, and when someone buys through your link, you earn money. I’m currently an affiliate for hundreds of online entrepreneurs, as well as for dozens of companies like Amazon and AWeber.
Why Affiliate Marketing is Perfect for Beginners
* Low startup costs — no need to create your own product.
* Flexible — you can do it alongside other projects or a day job.
* Scalable — as you build an audience, your affiliate earnings can grow.
How to Get Started with Affiliate Marketing for Newer Entrepreneurs
Step 1: Choose a Niche
Pick something you’re interested in or your audience needs. Examples:
* Health and wellness
* Online tools for business
* Personal finance or side hustle products
Step 2: Find Affiliate Products
*Recommend trusted products or services.
* Platforms to start with:
* Amazon Associates (physical products)
* ClickBank or ShareASale (digital products)
* Software tools like email services, website builders, etc.
Step 3: Create Content Around the Product
* Write blog posts, send emails, or share on social media:
* Product reviews — Share your honest opinion.
* ‘How-to’ guides — Teach people how to use the product.
* Problem-solution content — Position the product as the solution.
Step 4: Share Your Affiliate Link
Place your links naturally:
* Blog posts
* Emails
* Social media or YouTube
Step 5: Track Results
* Use affiliate dashboards to see clicks, conversions, and earnings.
* Adjust strategies based on what works.
Best Practices for Affiliate Marketing Success
Be Honest: Only promote products you believe in and/or use yourself.
Provide Value: Focus on helping your audience, not just selling.
Stay Consistent: Results take time, so keep sharing valuable content.
Here’s a structure for a simple yet impactful affiliate marketing lesson tailored for new entrepreneurs and marketers. This can easily be shared as a blog post or email.
Affiliate Marketing for Newer Entrepreneurs: How to Start Earning Income Online
Action Taker’s Tip:
“Affiliate marketing is about serving your audience while earning an income. Start small, keep testing, and always focus on recommending products that solve real problems.”
Building relationships with product creators, vendors, and other affiliates is a powerful way to elevate your affiliate marketing success, especially as a beginner. These relationships can help you access better opportunities, insights, and long-term partnerships. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Building Relationships with Product and Course Creators
These are the people behind the products or courses you’re promoting. A strong relationship can lead to higher commissions, exclusive bonuses, and insider opportunities.
How to Start:
Reach Out and Introduce Yourself: Send a polite, professional email or message introducing yourself.
* Example: “Hi [Creator’s Name], I’ve been following your work on [product/course]. I recently started promoting it and love how it solves [specific problem]. I’d love to collaborate or support your work further!”
Ask Questions: Show genuine interest in the product and ask for tips on how best to promote it.
* Example: “What types of content or messaging have worked well for your affiliates so far?”
Offer Value First: Share insights, testimonials, or small wins. Show them you’re actively working to promote their product.
* Example: “I recently wrote a blog post featuring your course, and it’s starting to get traction. Happy to send any feedback from my audience!”
Why It Matters:
You might get access to higher-tier commissions.
They could share insider insights on upcoming launches.
You can negotiate special bonuses or discounts for your audience.
2. Connecting with Vendors of Tools and Services
If you’re promoting tools like email marketing platforms, website builders, or other services, relationship-building is key to long-term success.
How to Start:
Use the Tool Yourself: Become familiar with the product before promoting it. Share your personal results or case studies with the vendor.
Attend Webinars and Live Demos: Many vendors host free training. Engage, ask questions, and follow up with the team afterward.
Offer to Provide Testimonials: Vendors love hearing from real users. By offering to write a testimonial, you’ll get on their radar.
Reach Out to Affiliate Managers: Most companies have dedicated managers for their affiliate programs.
Example: “Hi [Affiliate Manager’s Name], I’m new to your program and excited to promote [tool/service]. Do you have any resources or best practices to help new affiliates succeed?”
Why It Matters:
*Vendors often provide marketing materials like banners, email swipes, or case studies.
*You may get exclusive access to new features or products.
*Strong relationships can lead to special offers or collaborations that benefit your audience.
3. Building Relationships with Other Affiliates
Connecting with other affiliate marketers creates a network of support, collaboration, and shared strategies.
How to Start:
Join Affiliate Communities: Look for Facebook groups, LinkedIn groups, or forums where affiliates share tips.
Examples: Groups focused on specific niches, like blogging for business tools or health and wellness products.
Attend Virtual Events or Affiliate Summits: Industry events like Affiliate Summit or webinars bring affiliates together.
Reach Out to Like-Minded Marketers: If you find someone promoting the same product, connect and exchange ideas.
Example: “I noticed you’re also promoting [course/tool]. What’s been working well for you so far?”
Collaborate on Content: You could co-host webinars, feature each other in blog posts, or run joint promotions.
Why It Matters:
You can learn what’s working for others and apply their strategies.
Collaboration creates win-win opportunities for both parties.
They can refer you to better affiliate programs or introduce you to product creators.
4. Tips for Long-Term Relationship Building
*Be Authentic: Focus on building genuine connections, not just transactions.
*Follow Up Consistently: Keep the relationship alive by checking in, sharing wins, or asking for updates.
*Show Gratitude: Thank creators, vendors, and affiliates when they offer support, resources, or advice.
*Highlight Their Work: Promote their product publicly, share testimonials, or shout them out on social media.
Practical Example of a Relationship-Building Email to a Product Creator
Subject: Excited to Promote [Product Name]
Body:
Hi [Creator’s Name],
I’ve recently joined your affiliate program for [Product Name], and I’m so impressed with how it helps [specific problem your audience faces]. I’ve started writing content about it and would love to hear any tips you have on promoting it successfully.
If you have marketing resources, webinars, or case studies for affiliates, I’d be thrilled to check them out. I’m committed to sharing this valuable tool with my audience and helping them [achieve desired outcome].
Thank you for creating such a great product! I’m looking forward to building a great partnership.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
By intentionally building relationships, you’ll stand out as a thoughtful, engaged affiliate. Over time, this creates trust, opens doors for better opportunities, and helps you grow your affiliate business faster.
Here are three additional affiliate relationship-building email templates for reaching out to product creators, vendors, and other affiliates. These are written in a way that is approachable, professional, and focused on building genuine relationships.
Email to a Product Creator: Requesting Promotion Insights
Subject: Excited to Share [Product Name] – Any Tips for Success?
Body:
Hi [Creator’s Name],
I’m thrilled to be part of your affiliate program for [Product Name]! I’ve started creating content around it because I truly believe it helps [specific audience need or problem].
As I’m promoting this, I’d love to hear if you have any best practices or examples of what’s worked for other affiliates in the past. Are there particular angles, messaging, or content types that tend to resonate well with your audience?
I’m focused on bringing value to my readers and showcasing your product authentically. If you have any resources, like banners, email swipes, or case studies, I’d love to utilize them!
Looking forward to a long-term partnership. Thank you for all the work you’ve put into this amazing product!
Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Blog/Business Name]
[Website Link or Social Link]
Email to a Vendor/Tool Provider: Offering a Testimonial or Case Study
Subject: Testimonial for [Tool/Service Name] – Happy to Share!
Body:
Hi [Affiliate Manager/Company Team],
I’ve been using [Tool/Service Name] for [X months/years], and I’m genuinely impressed by how it’s helped me [specific benefit – e.g., grow my audience, save time, increase sales].
As part of your affiliate program, I’d love to share my experience with your team in case it can help you showcase the product to others. I can write a short testimonial or even share a mini case study of how [Tool/Service Name] made a difference in my business.
Please let me know if this would be helpful for you! I’m excited to continue promoting this tool and helping others discover how impactful it can be.
Looking forward to hearing your thoughts!
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Website/Social Link]
Email to Another Affiliate: Collaborating for Growth
Subject: Let’s Collaborate – Promoting [Product/Tool Name] Together
Body:
Hi [Affiliate’s Name],
I came across your blog/YouTube channel where you’re promoting [Product/Tool Name], and I’m really impressed with your content. I’m also promoting this product because I believe it truly helps [specific audience need].
I had an idea for a potential collaboration:
We could write guest posts for each other’s blogs.
Co-host a webinar or workshop about [topic/product benefits].
Share each other’s affiliate content in an email/newsletter.
I think a collaboration could bring value to both our audiences and amplify the reach of our efforts.
Let me know what you think! I’m open to brainstorming ways we can work together for mutual success.
Looking forward to hearing from you!
Best,
[Your Name]
[Your Website/Blog Name]
[Social Media Link]
Follow-Up Email Template (General Use After Initial Contact)
Subject: Just Following Up – [Product Name or Opportunity]
Body:
Hi [Recipient’s Name],
I hope this message finds you well! I wanted to follow up on my previous email about [specific topic – e.g., collaboration, promotional tips, testimonial offer]. I’m really excited about the opportunity to [share your product, collaborate, etc.] and would love to hear your thoughts.
Please let me know if there’s anything I can do to move this forward or if you have other ideas in mind. I’m always open to supporting and adding value where I can.
Looking forward to connecting!
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Why These Templates Work:
They focus on relationship-building, not just sales.
They provide value upfront: asking for insights, offering help, or proposing collaborations.
They are polite, professional, and leave the door open for further communication.
Here’s a custom-tailored email template for someone promoting an autoresponder service like AWeber or ConvertKit. It positions you as a proactive affiliate who genuinely wants to provide value and collaborate.
Email Template to an Autoresponder Provider (Affiliate Manager/Team)
Subject: Excited to Promote [AWeber/ConvertKit] – Best Practices for Success?
Body:
Hi [Affiliate Manager’s Name],
I hope this finds you well! I recently joined the affiliate program for [AWeber/ConvertKit] and wanted to share how much I admire the platform’s ability to help entrepreneurs and small businesses grow their email lists and communicate effectively with their audiences.
I’m currently working on content that teaches new entrepreneurs how to leverage email marketing to build and nurture their audiences. I’ll be showcasing [AWeber/ConvertKit] as my recommended tool because of its [specific feature – e.g., ease of use, automation capabilities, or robust integrations].
To ensure I represent your product effectively, I’d love to know:
Are there any best practices or strategies that your most successful affiliates are using?
Do you have any promotional resources (banners, case studies, or swipe copy) that would help me create valuable and engaging content?
Are there any upcoming launches or features I should highlight for my audience?
I’m excited to help my readers discover how [AWeber/ConvertKit] can simplify their email marketing and drive growth in their businesses. I’m committed to creating genuine, value-driven content, and I’d love to collaborate further as I grow my affiliate efforts.
Looking forward to hearing from you!
Warm regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Website/Blog Name]
[Your Social Links]
Why This Works:
Specific Praise: You highlight the autoresponder’s unique strengths (e.g., automation, ease of use) that align with the provider’s goals.
Genuine Intent: You make it clear you want to promote them authentically.
Questions with Purpose: You ask for best practices, resources, and upcoming launches—showing you’re strategic and proactive.
Clear Partnership Tone: It feels professional, relationship-focused, and open-ended for further collaboration.
Here’s a tailored version of the email specifically for AWeber, highlighting their key strengths like ease of use, excellent customer support, and value for small businesses.
Custom Email Template for AWeber Affiliate Program
Subject: Excited to Promote AWeber – Any Tips for New Affiliates?
Body:
Hi [Affiliate Manager’s Name],
I hope you’re doing well! I recently joined the AWeber affiliate program and wanted to take a moment to share how much I appreciate AWeber’s commitment to helping small businesses simplify email marketing. Features like the intuitive drag-and-drop email builder, customizable templates, and excellent customer support really make AWeber stand out for new entrepreneurs.
I’m currently creating content aimed at helping small business owners and new entrepreneurs understand the value of email marketing, and I’m recommending AWeber as my go-to tool. To provide the best value to my audience and represent AWeber effectively, I’d love to ask:
What types of content or strategies have you seen work best for affiliates promoting AWeber?
Are there any case studies, swipe copy, or other promotional resources that I can use to enhance my content?
Do you have any upcoming promotions, features, or campaigns that affiliates can highlight?
I want to ensure my audience sees AWeber as the user-friendly, dependable solution it is for email marketing success. I’m excited to build a strong, long-term partnership with your team and help more entrepreneurs grow their businesses with AWeber.
Thank you for your time, and I look forward to hearing from you!
Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Website/Blog Name]
[Your Social Links]
Why It’s Effective for AWeber:
Specific Praise: Highlights AWeber’s strengths—intuitive builder, templates, and support—key selling points for beginners and small businesses.
Content-Focused: Positions you as a creator committed to educating your audience about email marketing.
Clear Requests: Asking for best practices, case studies, and promotions shows you’re serious about driving results.
Long-Term Vision: Emphasizes that you want to build a lasting relationship, which resonates with companies looking for engaged affiliates.
Here’s a polished email template that a new marketer can send to their audience, introducing AWeber and recommending it as their go-to email marketing tool. This message is simple, clear, and value-focused, perfect for beginners.
Subject: The Easiest Way to Grow Your Email List
Body:
Hi [First Name],
If you’re serious about growing your business online, you need an email list. Social media is great, but email marketing is where the real connection (and conversions) happen.
The problem? Many tools can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re just starting out. That’s why I’m excited to recommend AWeber.
Here’s why I love AWeber for new entrepreneurs:
*Simple to Use: Their drag-and-drop email builder makes it super easy to create beautiful emails—no tech skills needed.
*Affordable: They have a free plan for up to 500 subscribers. You can get started right now without spending a dime.
*Grow Faster: With features like automated emails, customizable signup forms, and landing pages, AWeber helps you build and nurture your email list effortlessly.
I know how intimidating email marketing can seem at first, but AWeber truly makes it beginner-friendly. Whether you want to sell products, share content, or stay in touch with your audience, it’s a tool that works.
Ready to get started? Sign up for AWeber’s FREE plan here: [Insert Affiliate Link]
If you’ve been waiting to build your email list, there’s no better time than now. Trust me—your future self will thank you!
To your success,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Blog/Website Name]
Why This Works:
Value-Focused: It highlights the benefits of AWeber—ease of use, affordability, and tools that help beginners grow.
Relatable Tone: The language is simple and conversational, perfect for connecting with a new audience.
Call-to-Action: The CTA is clear, encouraging readers to sign up for AWeber’s free plan—a low-risk first step.
Personal Touch: Phrases like “your future self will thank you” add warmth and encouragement.
Wrap-Up for Your Challenge
Affiliate marketing for newer entrepreneurs makes sense, whether you’re already online or just getting started. Here’s why:
* It simplifies action into small, manageable steps.
* It reinforces the mindset of helping over selling.
* It brings with it an inspiring challenge that encourages immediate action.
“Now that you know the fundamentals of affiliate marketing and how to build genuine relationships with product creators, vendors, and other affiliates, it’s time to put this knowledge into action.
Start small, but start now:
Choose one product or service that you truly believe in—something that has helped you, or could help your audience.
Reach out to the affiliate program team or product creator using the templates I’m sharing with you. Build that bridge and stand out by offering genuine value.
Share what you love about the product with your audience—whether it’s through a blog post, email, video, or social media. Focus on helping, not selling.
Remember: Affiliate marketing for newer entrepreneurs isn’t about pushing products—it’s about connecting people with the solutions they need, while building trust and authority along the way. The sooner you take action, the sooner you’ll start seeing results.
Your challenge today:
Send one email or create one piece of content to promote a tool or product you recommend.
Take one small step, and watch it build momentum.
You’ve got this! The tools and opportunities are in your hands. If you stay consistent and focus on building relationships, you’ll be well on your way to growing your income as a trusted affiliate marketer.”
Here’s a simple and actionable checklist that new entrepreneurs and marketers can use to take immediate steps toward success in affiliate marketing.
Affiliate Marketing Action Checklist
Your 3-Day Challenge to Start Affiliate Marketing for Newer Entrepreneurs Like a Pro
Step 1: Choose the Right Product or Tool
*Find a product or service you already use and love.
*If you haven’t used one, choose a trusted product that aligns with your audience’s needs.
*Check if the product or tool has an affiliate program (e.g., on their website or affiliate marketplaces like ShareASale, ClickBank, or Amazon Associates).
*Sign up for the affiliate program and get your unique affiliate link.
Step 2: Reach Out and Build Relationships
Use the provided email templates to reach out to:
The product creator or affiliate manager for tips, resources, and best practices.
Other affiliates for collaboration ideas (e.g., guest posts, joint content, or sharing tips).
Introduce yourself, ask for their advice, and express your commitment to promoting authentically.
Step 3: Create and Share Your First Affiliate Promotion
Decide on the type of content you’ll create:
Blog Post: Write a review, tutorial, or a “Top 5 Tools” list featuring the product.
Email: Send a recommendation email sharing why you love the product.
Social Media: Share an engaging post, carousel, or video about how the product solves a specific problem.
Video: Record a demo, tutorial, or your experience using the product.
Include your affiliate link naturally in your content. (Tip: Be transparent and add a short disclaimer about your affiliate link.)
Publish and share the content with your audience.
Step 4: Track, Test, and Refine
*Monitor how your audience responds (e.g., clicks, engagement, or questions).
*If possible, use tools like Google Analytics, Bit.ly, or the affiliate dashboard to track link performance.
*Test what works: Try different content types, messaging, or promotions to see what resonates best.
Your Final Action:
Commit to taking at least one small step today:
* Get your affiliate link for something you want to promote.
* Send an outreach email.
*Write a quick blog post.
*Share a recommendation on social media.
Affiliate marketing for newer entrepreneurs is a worthy endeavor. Success starts with action. Take that step, and your momentum will grow! If you’re ready to learn more about affiliate marketing, come aboard for my “ReallySimpleAffiliateMarketingMicroCourse” This ongoing course includes a private call with me and two full years of access to everything I’m sharing, as well as all of the replays.
I’m bestselling USA Today and Wall Street Journal author Connie Ragen Green. My goal is to help at least a thousand people to reach six-figures and beyond with an online business. Come along with me, if you will and let us discover how we may further connect to achieve all of your dreams and goals. Perhaps my “Monthly Mentoring Program” is right for you.