Multi-Tier Affiliate Programs
By Karen Kari
Multi-tier marketing programs give affiliates the ability to earn commissions on their direct sales as well as the sales of other affiliates they direct to the merchant. They are promoted as a way for affiliates to earn additional money without generating additional sales through their sites or adding additional merchant companies.
Who does this make sense for?
Affiliates who are willing and able to research the companies offering such programs. Unfortunately, this type of company uses the same business model as the old offline Multi-Level Marketing companies, which turned some participants off because they were stuck with inventory of a product they were not prepared to sell and the buyers didn’t care to buy.
That said, online programs are different. The sellers hold no inventory, and therefore assume no risk if the product doesn’t move. They get also get a percentage of the sales of other affiliates they introduce to the program. But you want to be sure that every you add to your program and feature on your valuable site real estate will earn its keep.
How should you check them out?
Buy some of the product, and honestly see if it is of the quality your site visitors
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