Making a great affiliate offer.

[Tim]

I have been asked by a hosting compnay as to what they see as making a great affiliate offer for hosting. Now I have my own ideas - what does anyone else thingk that would incentivise them to push affiliates in one direction? Long length cookie - one off referral fee, monthly commission or other arrangement.

I'd be interested in evryones thoughts as to what would make a good affiliate scheme for web hosts?

The company in question I reckon do an outstanding job in terms of support and good uptime, so their quality of product I believe is good, the are however not the cheapest on theblock but the support is excellent.

[El Craigo]

Hi Tim,

In my opinion, a number of merchants spend too much energy in trying to drive business by upping the ante on commission rates, cookies, tiered bonuses etc., and not enough time on improving their offer to potential end customers.

I'm perfectly happy to take a lower rate and actually make money rather than a higher rate that doesn't convert.

Craig

[HarveyJ]

Without meaning to sound too mercenary, as an affiliate, I only care about customer retention if I'm getting an ongoing commission from them.

To that effect, if they're a crappy host with crap service, I'd prefer a higher payout.
If they're good folk, personable, etc., then the ongoing commissions.
Problem is, of course, no one is going to admit they're crap.

[Tim]

Thanks for the advice guys - much appreciated.