Should I join a threesome?

[David H]

Should I join a threesome?...

Ok this is the scenario. A client who owns several on line clothing catalogues has subscribed to the following networks:

• Commission Junction
• Paid on results

Now the question I have is would there be a significant benefit in adding affiliate window to make up a threesome or should I drop commission junction as there are many negative posts about this network.

Now I'm biased towards affilaite window as they are really easy to use and are on the end of a phone when you need them but I really want to hear affilaite opinion on commision junction and paid on results and what could be a favourable startegy.

Any insights welcomed :-)

[John Jupp]

As AW have Shop Window up and running and a user of Shop Window does not need to sign up to the merchant per se, then do it. Yes CJ (UK) have a poor rep, but my understanding is there are to be improvements there as a particular affiliate and agency (having spoken to him recently) has been brought in to steer them in the right direction, so don't quit just yet.

[Keith]

It doesn't really matter how many networks a merchant is on, the key to a successful affiliate program is communication with affiliates.

Let affiliates know about special offers, best sellers, new ranges etc etc

There are many avenues open to impart this information including but not limited to, email, network message system, this forum, a dedicated affiliate blog, messenger.

I'm not saying this approach will provide instant results, however it will make more affiliates aware of what is available and more inclined to promote your client.

[renegade]

I doubt three networks compared to two will improve sales much but whatever you decide to do keep POR

[jess1]

Hi Ya

Not enough info here for any one to give any kind opinion, impo.
Is the grass going to be greener?
Same question..Will we get hit on the head by a comet tomorrow.

We all have fav networks for a variety of different reasons, could be reporting, could be customer services could be any number of factors.

What is in the best interest for your client? If you shut down one network, what is the short or long term financial implications as in what % of the business income does this network bring in? What % of affiliates can you migrate? If any? What are the advantages? Go and do some thorough research and contact awin and Cj. Point is, this business is not yours and your client is entrusting you to make the right choice in which case you will need to back that up with a projection of loss and gains and assumptions.
It worries me that you have even asked this question as you are the expert right?
Your client is paying you for your expertise? You should already know the answers?

[hero]

if a third network is considered due to unhappiness with the existing ones, you should first speak with your existing networks to address what makes the client unhappy. If you still see no light at the end of the tunnel, then you should explore your options.

Since you represent clients, you should always have the client's interest in mind, not personal preferences, and make a thorough market research before making decisions.

[adamski]

Hi David

Would be happy to have a chat with you. Email me with your details and we'll organise a call.

Adam

[David H]

Thanks for all your reply's much to think about. Interested to hear the bad vibe about commission junction UK is real albeit temporarily, people can turn things around.

But one area always remains a little bit of a mystery to me and thats being able to clearly see which networks are stronger in different sectors. I mean how can you tell if one network is stronger in in line retail compared to annother?

Any insights welcome :-)

[David H]

Originally Posted by Keith It doesn't really matter how many networks a merchant is on, the key to a successful affiliate program is communication with affiliates. Let affiliates know about special offers, best sellers, new ranges etc etc There are many avenues open to impart this information including but not limited to, email, network message system, this forum, a dedicated affiliate blog, messenger. I'm not saying this approach will provide instant results, however it will make more affiliates aware of what is available and more inclined to promote your client.

Really like your reply Keith Thank you :-)

Yes I get your point about using different channels to communicate your offerings. If you get a chance could you elaborate on what a "Network SysTEm is" and if I did "a dedicated affiliate blog" would i do that thru this site or should I build one independently?

[Keith]

Originally Posted by David H Really like your reply Keith Thank you :-) Yes I get your point about using different channels to communicate your offerings. If you get a chance could you elaborate on what a "Network SysTEm is" and if I did "a dedicated affiliate blog" would i do that thru this site or should I build one independently?

What I meant by Network system is the "Message Centre" on Paid on Results.

As for a blog, host it independently, then include the feed on the blogs section of a4u http://www.affiliates4u.com/feeds/