In this episode of Partnership, Alex Standiford hosts Derrick Hernandez, an expert in affiliate marketing with over seven years of experience working for companies like Bluehost and Stellar WP.
Derrick shares valuable insights and strategies on how to identify, attract, and support affiliates effectively. The discussion covers topics such as manual research, leveraging search engines, affiliate program incentives, reactivation campaigns, custom landing pages, and the importance of relationship building.
Perfect for bootstrapped businesses looking to expand their reach through affiliate marketing. Stay tuned for actionable tips and personal experiences that can help elevate your affiliate programs.
Show Notes
Key Links
- Derrick on LinkedIn
- StellarWP Affiliate Program
- SEMRush
- Mangools (My personal preferred SEMRush alternative.)
Key Topics Covered:
- Affiliate Marketing Basics: Derrick shares how he got started in the industry and discusses key fundamentals for launching a successful affiliate program.
- Recruitment Strategies: Learn Derrick’s approach to finding the right affiliates for your program, including how to target affiliates that align with your brand and goals.
- Retention Techniques: Insights into what keeps affiliates engaged and performing, from commission structures to ongoing communication.
- Real-World Examples: Derrick highlights lessons learned from his time at Bluehost and Stellar WP, sharing specific campaigns and strategies that worked.
- Common Pitfalls: Avoid the mistakes that could hinder the growth of your affiliate program, including failing to nurture relationships with affiliates.
- Affiliate Avatar: Derrick and Alex explore the concept of building a detailed affiliate avatar to ensure that you attract affiliates who will bring in the right kind of sales.
Key Takeaways:
- Building Relationships Is Key: Affiliates are more than just partners; they should be treated as an integral part of your business growth. Fostering these relationships through regular communication and support is crucial.
- Quality Over Quantity: Focusing on fewer high-performing affiliates is more effective than managing a large group of mediocre affiliates.
- Tailored Commission Structures: Derrick explains why creating custom commissions for different affiliates can drive better results.
- Leveraging Data for Affiliate Success: Understanding what motivates affiliates and providing them with the tools they need to succeed can lead to higher engagement and loyalty.
- Scaling with Confidence: Derrick shares how to scale your affiliate program without sacrificing the quality of your partnerships.