Can Small Businesses Stay Afloat in the New Affiliate Marketing? – Tricia Meyer
Tricia Meyer
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Affiliate Marketer, Blogger, and Consultant
November 7, 2023
by Tricia
My posts may include paid links for which I earn a commission.
As PMA Executive Director, I’m thrilled to see the growth of affiliate marketing. Year after year, we witness more merchants embracing it, and traditional media finding innovative ways to integrate it. However, while the pond keeps expanding, I remain the same size. Despite being content with my "lifestyle business" and its flexibility, I can’t help but wonder how much longer my 17-year-old venture can stay competitive.
Understanding the Big Picture:
Remember, there’s ample room for everyone in affiliate marketing. With countless consumers worldwide making purchases across various categories, there’s always a place for unique businesses. Focus on differentiating yourself—even if it’s just a little.
Niche Down:
Consider Sunshine Rewards, a cashback site that caters to Disney enthusiasts. We may not be as large as venture-capital-backed sites, but we have a dedicated audience. You can emulate this by choosing a niche within a niche: whether travel for those who prefer road trips over flights, or crafts for the creatively challenged.
Get Personal:
Building personal connections with your audience is invaluable. Sharing personal experiences—like my Disney vacation pictures on my cashback site—generates more engagement than any other content. The more your customers know you, the stronger your relationship becomes.
Set Realistic Goals:
Be honest about your size and traffic. While striving for growth, use data and resources to set achievable goals. Unrealistic expectations can lead to disappointment.
Collaborate Strategically:
Smaller businesses often have more flexibility to collaborate with other smaller entities. Reach out to compatible merchants or publishers who could benefit from your audience or traffic. Mutual support fosters sustainable growth.