There are so many affiliate programs it’s hard to decide what program to join, especially when you’re just starting. The first thing I advise is not to go hog-wild and join lots of them. It’s confusing, time-consuming and it might even cause more harm than good if just looking like you’re crap out to your readers. At most, I would start with ten or fewer affiliate programs. Maybe even phase them in,  one at a time, over a few weeks. That gives you times to figure out how to utilize them in the best way. Unfortunately, throwing up links doesn’t always equate to sales.

The 10 programs below are some of my favorites that work well on mom and lifestyle blogs. They’re also reputable and easy to understand programs.

Amazon

It’s the elephant in the room when it comes to affiliate programs and you can’t–or shouldn’t–ignore it. Besides, they have SOOOOO many products, so there so be something for every mom blogger to promote, no matter what her focus is. There are some bloggers in very specialized niches that run Amazon only affiliate sites and earn well. Even if you use just a few Amazon links, you can still earn a little (and who doesn’t like a little money).

Amazon recently changed the fee structure for affiliates, so you’ll want to take a close look at that. For example, furniture and kitchen products will earn you more than baby products. Adding links and banners is relatively easy and there are a variety of plugins that make it even easier, such as EasyAzon that allows you to add a product link right from your WordPress post.

They also pay monthly.

eBates

First, I love this program, as a shopper! As I get to understand it better, I’m using it more. And saving money. And that’s what makes it such a great affiliate program for bloggers who write about frugality and saving money. Okay, a caveat: eBates pay for referrals and is not an affiliate per se. Actually, they are a part of affiliate programs to lots of retailers and they share a portion of their commissions with eBates shoppers. When someone signs up using your referral link, you make money, too. Currently, that’s $5 for each referral. You sign up also get a bonus, so it’s a win-win for everyone. If you don’t already have an eBates account, you can sign up here, then start using it yourself to save money and start making money (they pay quarterly) by adding a little referral button to your blog post…

Ibotta

This is another site similar to eBates only they concentrate on coupon offers. The site works with over 300 stores, including Walmart, Target, RightAid and Publix. To use as a shopper you need to download a free app. Before shopping (or even after) you look for products and if available, you unlock the rebate. It might mean watching a video or answering a question. Once the product is bought, scan the receipt (that’s what the downloaded app is for) and send it into Ibotta. They process within 48 hours. Withdrawal threshold is $20 via PayPal or Venmo (but those saving add up fast). As an affiliate (or referrer, actually) you earn $5, just like rebates. And the referee gets $10. Another win-win. And all you need to do is show your reader how they can save money with the program on your blog and add a link like this.

ShareASale

This is a large affiliate network with over 4000 merchants and lots of categories that fit in with a variety of mommy niches. Most are pay-for-sale commissions, but there are some merchants who pay for leads. You’ll have to sign up with each one and may take a few days for approval. There are some merchants who give immediate approval. It just a matter of finding the right products that work for your readers. Payments are sent monthly either with a check or by direct deposit to your bank. Check out ShareASale.com for more information.

Etsy

If you love crafty things (jewelry, funky and fun home accessories, vintage products and craft supplies), then you already know Etsy. But they also have an affiliate program that allows you to make commissions. There’s a lot of opportunities to mom bloggers with Etsy. You can set you minimum payout between $20 and $100 and are paid via direct deposit. Find out more information here.

Learning the INs and OUTs of Affiliate Marketing

Learning how to be a successful affiliate marketer is not always easy, especially if you don’t see yourself as the saleswoman type. That’s why I’m glad I took Michelle Schroeder-Gardner’s class Making Sense of Affiliate Marketing. You probably have heard of Michelle Schroeder-Gardner. Her income reports make me swoon. And not just because she’s making a lot of bucks. It’s because she figured it out. As I went through the course I had a lot of “light bulb” moments. But more important, I had a blueprint to help me go forward. I’m still refining and implements, but it’s all beginning to make sense for me. If you’re in the same boat, wanting your blog to make money so you don’t have to stay (or head back… EKK!) to the rat-race, then I can’t think of a better place to start than with Making Sense of Affiliate Marketing. You can find out more information by using my affiliate link-😉-right here!

Thanks for stopping by. I hope you get started with these five great affiliate/referral programs. Soon that later!