If you’re a self-employed blogger aiming to monetize your passion, affiliate marketing might be a key strategy in your arsenal. ShareASale, an affiliate marketing portal, has emerged as a go-to platform for many content creators. In this honest review, we’ll delve into the intricacies of ShareASale, examining why it’s favored and uncovering both the positives and negatives from a seasoned user’s perspective.
What is ShareASale, and Why Choose It?
ShareASale serves as a centralized hub listing companies willing to pay commissions for referral sales. For bloggers juggling multiple niches, its convenience stands out. With thousands of products neatly organized, it’s a time-saving resource for those who prefer a one-stop-shop approach.
The Blogger’s Toolbox — Pros of Using ShareASale
Active and Diverse Marketplace: ShareASale boasts thousands of companies across various categories, ensuring a plethora of products to promote. The constant addition of new items keeps the platform vibrant and dynamic.
User-Friendly Interface: Navigating ShareASale is a breeze, crucial for bloggers investing the majority of their time in content creation. An intuitive interface simplifies the process of finding and promoting products.
High Acceptance Rates: Unlike some competitors, ShareASale has a reputation for higher acceptance rates. Bloggers find it easier to join affiliate programs aligned with their content, eliminating the frustration of rejections.
Punctual Payouts: Trust is crucial in affiliate marketing, and ShareASale shines in this aspect. Timely payouts and seamless transfers contribute to its credibility as a legitimate platform.
Accessible Affiliate Managers: Quick access to affiliate managers facilitates smoother collaborations. Building relationships and negotiating commission rates becomes a straightforward process.
Navigating the Bumps — Cons of ShareASale
WordPress Compatibility Challenges: The affiliate links generated by ShareASale pose a challenge for WordPress users. Characters like “&” can be altered when switching between text and visual modes, demanding last-minute link additions.
Link Verification Woes: ShareASale lacks a feature to verify affiliate links on their platform. Bloggers struggle to identify and fix broken links, impacting the integrity of their content over time.
Outdated Website Design: While functionality remains intact, the outdated design raises concerns about the platform’s long-term viability. A more modern interface could instill confidence in users regarding ongoing support and resources.
Success with ShareASale, like any affiliate marketing venture, depends on dedication and strategy. While instant millions might be a stretch, the platform offers unlimited income potential. The learning curve is steep, but once mastered, it becomes a reliable source of recurring income. Bloggers with established ShareASale accounts often experience higher acceptance rates and enjoy streamlined income generation.
Becoming a ShareASale Affiliate — A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Create a New Account
Choosing a brand-aligned username and a unique password is the first step. This sets the foundation for your ShareASale journey.
2. Add Your Details
Provide information about your publisher website and marketing strategy. Ensure your site complies with ShareASale’s content policies.
3. Confirm Your Email Address
Use a professional email address aligned with your website domain for a more credible application. Verify your email to proceed.
4. Plug in Your Contact Info
Complete personal details, including your name and phone number. Confirm ownership of the provided email and website domain.
5. Confirm Payment Details
Select your preferred payment method — direct deposit, postal service check, or federal express check.
6. Getting Started
Once registered, explore ShareASale’s resources on finding merchants or affiliates, reporting, FAQs, and webinars to kickstart your affiliate marketing journey.