Re: Linkshare/Affiliate programs
KEN RUCK WROTE:
> We are about to embark upon an extensive affiliate
> marketing program and are close to deciding between
> two programs. In looking at Linkshare, we have
> several questions:
>
> 1 - How negotiable are they on the 3% of gross sales
> rate card? Any negotiating success stories?
>
> 2 - do you need to take advantage of the "optional
> software" packages or are the basic services adequate?
>
> 3 - recommendations for other full service affiliate
> program managers taking into account productivity on
> an international level.
Ken Ruck asked about LinkShare and what other options
are open to him for his planned affiliate program. I
would have been happy to give him some ideas specific
to his situation, but he didn't give any details as to
the type of business he is doing, so I'll stay general
and offer to give him more help if he wants to contact
me.
There are several areas where I feel LinkShare falls
short.
1. Very high start up costs.
2. Poor communication and failure to take
responsibility for problems.
3. Poor affiliate relations due to failure of merchants
to pay commissions owed.
4. An unjustifiable exclusivity requirement.
For these reasons and more I have aligned myself
with Commission Junction. The people are extremely
friendly and communicative, making customer service a
high priority. I have also found them to be very
innovative and forward thinking in their approach to
the affiliate marketing industry.
I just returned from spending the weekend with
their company in Santa Barbara where I saw what I
believe is going to be the best affiliate marketing
service available. In addition they are starting an
educational program to help their merchants and
affiliates grow their businesses. This is a company
that is geared for success, not just signing up
merchants for a fee.
They are opening offices around the world,
offering a service that is second to none. And when
merchants sign up through my partner site at
http://affiliateadvisor.cj.com
they get additional support and advice from me at no
additional cost. Although I can't say at this point
that this is the solution for Mr. Ruck's situation, I'm
very confident that it's at least worthy of a strong
look for the following reasons:
1. Low start up costs.
2. No exclusivity clauses.
3. Excellent support and service with a soon to be
unvailed system that will revolutionize the affiliate
marketing industry.
4. Total flexibility in program structure.
I could go on, but I think the point is made. Feel
free to email me if you have any additional questions.
I also have a section on my site that's devoted to how
to start your own affiliate program. I hope that helps.
Looking forward to meeting you all at Affiliate
Force 2000 in March. Come and "Drink Our Commissions"
at www.AffiliateParty.com
Glenn Sobel
Consulting to merchants and affiliate program
providers.
www.AffiliateAdvisor.com FREE newsletter & report.
Received on Wed Jan 26 2000 - 01:03:33 CST
