Newbie Merchant looking for info

[PokerBryan]

I market and build custom poker tables. I am good at both. using Craigslist, ebay and the web I have consistent sales. But they could be stronger. That's where affiliates come in.
How can I establish and manage an affiliate program to market my tables and increase sales? Do I pay for traffic or for actual paid sales? Are there software platforms to help me manage this? Is there a current program best to model this after?
Thoughts and suggestions always welcome.

Thanks in advance...

Bryan (at) offtiltpokertables.com

 

[Linda Buquet]

Hi Bryan,

Welcome to 5 Star. I moved your post from the newbie affiliate forum to the merchant/affiliate manager forum.

"Do I pay for traffic or for actual paid sales?"

Typically when you sell a product like you do - you would only pay a commission.
The amount depends on your market so you'd need to do competitive affiliate commission research.

"Are there software platforms to help me manage this?"

Yes there are 2 main options.

1) Software you buy and install to track sales and give affiliates banner serving and reporting options.

2) An affiliate network. Much easier to set up, they do all the banner serving and reporting,
help you attract some affiliates and also pay your affiliates. (Trusted 3rd party payments)

============================
Questions for you...

Market: Consumers or casinos?
Are you selling tables online now? How are conversions?
What is your average price point?

If you can answer some of those questions I can maybe give you a little
more specific advice about the best way to get started.

 

[adriaan12]

I think you're going to pay for the traffic that an affiliate gave you. Just like pay per click system.

 

[Natalie.M]

Hi PokerBryan,

I would recommend you to register in online magazines about affiliate marketing and online webinars - especially if you are new in the all affiliate industry - it would help you a lot. Also - do some research about your field - what is the average sale of poker tables? what is the commission you are able to give your affiliates once they'd made a sell? who are your competitors? what are they offering? There are a lot of questions that a good pre-entering the market research can help you answer.

Good luck!

 

[Digmen1]

Hi Bryan

Did you have any luck getting some affiliates set up ?

I saw your webiste.

I have a product that could be an accessory for poker tables.