Embarking on the world of affiliate marketing as a beginner can feel like entering a complex labyrinth. To help navigate this exciting journey, we’ve compiled a list of the 15 best affiliate programs perfectly suited for newcomers. From renowned giants like Amazon Associates and ClickBank to hidden gems like ShareASale and Refersion Marketplace, these programs offer user-friendly interfaces, diverse product ranges, and mentorship opportunities to guide beginners towards success. Let’s explore the realm of affiliate marketing tailored for those taking their first steps.
Table of Contents
15 Best Affiliate Programs For Beginners
1. Amazon Associates
Amazon Associates is a stellar starting point for newcomers in the realm of affiliate marketing. The program’s simplicity and global recognition make it an ideal platform for those taking their first steps into the world of online affiliate marketing.
One of the most appealing aspects for beginners is Amazon’s name itself. The brand is universally recognized, which can be an advantage when attracting potential customers. With a catalog encompassing an astonishing 385 million products, beginners have an extensive range of items to choose from for promotion.
Link creation and management are made incredibly easy through Amazon’s intuitive interface. This is a crucial feature for newcomers who might be daunted by the technical aspects of affiliate marketing. The user-friendly affiliate dashboard further simplifies the process of tracking performance and earnings.
Furthermore, Amazon places considerable emphasis on customer service. As an affiliate, you indirectly benefit from Amazon’s commitment to providing excellent service, enhancing the overall user experience for potential customers. This alignment with a customer-focused brand can positively influence your marketing efforts.
However, it’s essential for beginners to be aware of a couple of downsides. Amazon frequently alters its commission rates, which might impact your earnings unpredictably. Additionally, the 24-hour cookie duration, the time frame during which you can earn a commission from a referred customer, is relatively short compared to other programs. Despite these limitations, Amazon Associates remains a recommended choice for novices due to its user-friendly approach and extensive product range.
URL: Amazon Associates Program
Cost: Free
Type: Affiliate network
You get paid: Net 60
Payment threshold: $10
Best suited to: Affiliate marketing beginners building their first site
2. ClickBank
ClickBank, a pioneer in the affiliate marketing scene since 1998, is an excellent starting point for beginners. Its straightforward approach to digital product promotion, combined with its accessibility, makes it a preferred choice for those entering the field. One of ClickBank’s standout features is its minimal approval requirements. Unlike some networks that demand extensive application processes, ClickBank provides a more accessible path, allowing newcomers to get started without hurdles.
The platform’s interface is designed with simplicity in mind, enabling affiliates to navigate the system with ease. The ClickBank Marketplace serves as a hub for various digital and physical products, making it an ideal platform for diverse promotional opportunities. For beginners who may not have extensive experience with website creation, ClickBank’s digital focus reduces the need for complex shipping and inventory management, enabling marketers to concentrate on product promotion and content creation.
ClickBank’s payment threshold of $50 and Net 60 payment schedule cater to beginners looking for consistent payouts. The ability to earn commissions from recurring programs further enhances the potential for stable income. The support provided by merchant landing pages streamlines the pre-selling process, aiding beginners in converting leads to sales effectively. This aspect is particularly valuable for those new to the art of persuasion.
URL: ClickBank
Cost: Free
Type: Affiliate network
Best suited to: Marketers who prefer promoting digital products
Payment threshold: $50
You get paid: Net 60
3. CJ Affiliate
CJ Affiliate, previously known as Commission Junction, stands as a solid option for affiliate marketing beginners due to its combination of user-friendly tools and exposure to well-known brands.
The program offers an intuitive interface and dashboard, making it easy for newcomers to navigate through various features and analytics. This simplicity is especially beneficial for those new to affiliate marketing, as it reduces the learning curve associated with complex platforms.
CJ Affiliate specializes in collaborating with major brand names, a feature that can greatly benefit beginners. Associating your marketing efforts with recognizable brands like Zappos, Walgreens, and Verizon can lend credibility to your promotional activities. This can be particularly useful for newcomers who might lack a substantial online presence or audience.
The platform’s direct display advertising opportunities, which include both flat fee and commission-based options, offer versatility to beginners. This flexibility allows individuals to experiment with different types of promotions and monetization strategies, helping them discover what works best for their target audience.
However, like any platform, CJ Affiliate has its challenges. The constant flux of brands joining and leaving the network can be somewhat unpredictable, affecting the products available for promotion. Additionally, while the learning curve is lower compared to some platforms, beginners should still dedicate time to understanding the intricacies of the program.
URL: Commission Junction
Cost: Free
Type: Affiliate network
Payment threshold: $50
You get paid: Net 30
Best suited to: Affiliate marketers with 3 – 6 months experience under their belt.
4. ShareASale
ShareASale is a hidden gem that can be especially beneficial for affiliate marketing beginners who are willing to explore beyond the surface. Despite its somewhat outdated interface, this program offers substantial potential for those looking to dive into niche markets and emerging brands.
For newcomers, ShareASale’s strength lies in its diverse range of products and services available for promotion. The platform represents around 5,000 different affiliate programs, many of which cater to smaller but profitable companies. This focus on emerging brands and niche markets provides beginners with the opportunity to tap into markets that might be less saturated, potentially resulting in higher conversion rates.
The simplicity of the affiliate marketing dashboard can also be a boon for beginners. While some might be put off by the interface’s dated appearance, the straightforward design actually makes it easier to navigate and understand. This can be reassuring for newcomers who might find overly complex dashboards intimidating.
ShareASale’s “Search for Merchants” function is particularly valuable for beginners seeking suitable programs to promote. This feature simplifies the process of finding brands that align with your niche or interests. Additionally, the “PowerRank” metric provides insight into where an affiliate program stands in the ShareASale hierarchy, aiding beginners in identifying potentially profitable partnerships.
However, there are downsides to consider. The approval process for affiliate programs on ShareASale can be unpredictable, which might lead to delays in getting started. Additionally, the outdated interface might deter some beginners who prefer more modern and visually appealing platforms.
URL: ShareASale
Cost: Free
Type: Affiliate network
Payment threshold: $50
You get paid: Net 30
Best suited to: An affiliate marketer looking for emerging brands or more tangential products and services.
5. Etsy Affiliate Program
For beginners drawn to the world of handcrafted products, vintage items, and unique artistry, the Etsy Affiliate Program stands as an exceptional entry point. Etsy’s niche focus on independent crafters, artists, and vintage traders provides a specific and captivating landscape for newcomers to explore. This uniqueness ensures that beginners can align their interests with the program, making it an organic and enjoyable experience.
What truly sets Etsy apart for beginners is the personal connection it fosters. Many individuals have interacted with the platform as buyers or sellers, which creates a sense of familiarity. This familiarity can be leveraged by beginners as they venture into the affiliate marketing journey. Affiliates can confidently promote products they genuinely appreciate, adding authenticity to their marketing efforts.
Moreover, Etsy’s commission structure caters well to beginners. While the commissions might not lead to astronomical earnings, the 4% commission rate provides a reasonable starting point for those new to affiliate marketing. This way, beginners can reap the rewards of their efforts while gaining valuable experience in promoting products and managing affiliate activities.
Cost: Free
Type: Merchant (via Awin)
Best suited to: Affiliates with an interest in handmade items, personalized products or vintage goods.
Payment threshold: $50
You get paid: Net 30
6. eBay Partner Network
The eBay Partner Network (EPN) is a prime choice for beginners in the affiliate marketing realm, offering a variety of features that make it an approachable and beneficial starting point. First and foremost, eBay’s global recognition makes it an attractive affiliate program for beginners who might not yet have a substantial online presence. Associating with a well-known brand like eBay can provide an immediate sense of credibility to newcomers.
The direct relationship that EPN enables is another advantage for beginners. By working directly with eBay, affiliates can establish connections with the platform’s affiliate managers. This connection can prove invaluable in terms of support, guidance, and mentorship. For beginners, having access to experienced affiliate managers can be an essential asset in navigating the complexities of the affiliate marketing landscape.
Furthermore, eBay’s extensive product range, which includes both new and used items, opens up numerous opportunities for beginners to explore various niches and product categories. This variety ensures that beginners can align their promotional efforts with products that resonate with their interests and target audience. The diverse range also means that affiliates can continuously discover new products to promote, preventing stagnation in their marketing efforts.
URL: eBay Partner Network
Cost: Free
Type: Merchant
Best suited to: Anyone – if you’ve ever been on eBay you’ll understand why
Payment threshold: $10
You get paid: Net 30
7. Impact
Impact stands out as a relative newcomer in the affiliate marketing industry, but its foundations established by the creators of Commission Junction speak to its credibility. This platform’s strength lies in its modern user interface, making it particularly appealing to beginners. Unlike some networks with dated interfaces, Impact’s user-friendly design facilitates a smooth onboarding experience.
A significant advantage for novice marketers is Impact’s feature that highlights brands offering instant approvals. This simplifies the entry process for newcomers, granting them the opportunity to begin promoting products swiftly. With a substantial pool of over 2,500 brands, including household names like Adidas and Airbnb, Impact provides a diverse range of affiliate programs catering to various niches.
The platform’s monthly payment schedule and various payout methods ensure that beginners receive their earnings consistently. While the array of features can appear overwhelming initially, Impact’s intuitive interface gradually acquaints users with its functionalities, enabling them to navigate and leverage the platform effectively.
URL: impact.com
Cost: Free
Type: Affiliate network
Best suited to: Affiliate marketers looking for programs offering instant approvals
Payment threshold: Varies by payment method
8. Fiverr Affiliate Program
Fiverr’s affiliate program stands out as a robust option for beginners entering the affiliate marketing arena, particularly those interested in promoting services. This program capitalizes on the concept that selling services is often easier than physical products. For newcomers, this simplicity can alleviate some of the initial challenges associated with product-based affiliate marketing.
One of the most appealing aspects of the Fiverr affiliate program for beginners is its potentially high earning potential. The program offers up to $150 per referral, a significant commission rate that can lead to substantial earnings for those who effectively promote Fiverr’s services. For beginners, this earning potential can provide both motivation and financial rewards as they embark on their affiliate marketing journey.
The user-friendly interface of the Fiverr affiliate program is also worth noting. Its clean and modern design, combined with easy navigation, ensures that beginners can quickly grasp the essentials of managing their affiliate activities. This straightforward approach makes it accessible to those new to affiliate marketing, enabling them to focus more on promotion and less on navigating complex systems.
Cost: Free
Type: Merchant
Best suited to: Any blog with a topic that is directly or tangentially related to a Fiverr gig category, although business-style services do tend to sell very well.
Payment threshold: $100
You get paid: Net 30
9. Rakuten Advertising
Rakuten Advertising presents another attractive option for beginners. This Japanese affiliate marketing provider gained traction through its acquisition of LinkShare in 2005, leading to its evolution as a reliable platform. What makes Rakuten Advertising beginner-friendly is its user interface, which closely resembles that of many other affiliate networks. This familiarity makes transitioning into the platform smoother for those who may be exploring affiliate marketing for the first time.
With a portfolio of over 1,000 brands spanning a wide range of industries, Rakuten Advertising offers beginners a diverse selection of products to promote. This array includes gifts, electronics, office supplies, and more, granting affiliates the flexibility to choose products aligned with their interests and target audience. While Rakuten’s esteemed reputation sometimes leads to a slightly longer approval process, this is a testament to its significance in the affiliate marketing landscape.
The $50 payment threshold and Net 30 payment schedule appeal to beginners seeking a consistent income stream. Rakuten Advertising’s stability, coupled with its variety of brands and products, ensures that newcomers can gradually build their affiliate marketing business while exploring different niches.
URL: Rakuten affiliate program
Cost: Free
Type: Affiliate network
Best suited to: Affiliates who want to broaden their horizons beyond Amazon and eBay.
Payment threshold: $50
You get paid: Net 30
10. Awin
Awin emerges as a fantastic starting point for beginners in the world of affiliate marketing. Its notable feature is its sheer size, which provides a welcoming environment for newcomers to dip their toes into the affiliate marketing waters. With more than 16,500 advertisers and an impressive roster of 225,000 publishers, Awin offers an extensive network that can accommodate those taking their first steps in this realm.
What’s particularly appealing for beginners is Awin’s commitment to fast payments. Affiliate programs within the platform often come with accelerated payment options, which means affiliates don’t have to endure long waiting periods for their commissions. This rapid payment system provides a steady stream of income and boosts the confidence of those just getting started.
The platform’s user-friendly interface is another key factor. Awin employs clear and consistent labels and layouts, making navigation and tracking a breeze. Newcomers can easily understand and follow their affiliate activities through the intuitive Awin dashboards, which simplifies the learning curve associated with affiliate marketing.
In addition, Awin’s history adds to its appeal. Though it technically came into existence in 2017, its roots trace back to the early 2000s with the establishment of zanox and Affiliate Window networks. This rich history ensures a level of stability and experience that benefits beginners. Furthermore, Awin’s acquisition of ShareASale provides even more opportunities, as these two networks operate independently, allowing affiliates to tap into diverse merchant pools.
URL: Awin
Cost: Free
Type: Affiliate network
Best suited to: Affiliates who want to get paid promptly!
Payment threshold: From $20
You get paid: Once or twice a month (you choose)
11. PepperJam
Affiliate marketing novices often seek a platform that bridges the gap between their inexperience and the complexity of the industry. PepperJam emerges as a mentor and partner in growth for beginners, providing them with the necessary tools to succeed in this dynamic landscape.
The path to success is smoother when supported by an intuitive interface. PepperJam understands this and offers a user-friendly affiliate dashboard. This feature empowers beginners to navigate the platform effortlessly, reducing the learning curve and allowing them to focus on building their affiliate marketing strategies.
One of the challenges newcomers face is establishing connections with advertisers. PepperJam addresses this concern by allowing direct communication between affiliates and advertisers. Even if a beginner hasn’t yet joined an advertiser’s program, they can still reach out with inquiries. This unique feature fosters relationships from the start, paving the way for meaningful collaborations.
For beginners, the concept of Earnings Per Click (EPC) might be unfamiliar. PepperJam’s transparency comes to the rescue here, allowing affiliates to access EPC data. This valuable information enables newcomers to make informed decisions about which programs to join and which products to promote, setting them up for success right from the beginning.
Most suited to: PepperJam is a solid network for new and experienced affiliates alike.
Signup URL: PepperJam
Offer types: CPS
Payment options: Net 60
Payment terms: PayPal – you have to contact support for other options.
Payment threshold: $25
12. Refersion Marketplace
When stepping into the realm of affiliate marketing, finding a platform that caters to beginners is like discovering a treasure trove. Refersion Marketplace shines as an excellent choice for novices embarking on their affiliate marketing journey.
One of the most significant challenges beginners face is gaining acceptance from affiliate networks. Refersion Marketplace comes to the rescue with open arms, welcoming newcomers who might be struggling to get a foothold elsewhere. Their willingness to embrace affiliates who are just starting out gives beginners the confidence boost they need to dive into the world of affiliate marketing.
Navigating a complex interface can be overwhelming for someone new to affiliate marketing. Refersion addresses this concern by offering a fast and minimalist interface that’s easy to understand. This user-friendly design ensures that beginners won’t be bogged down by technicalities, allowing them to focus on the essential aspects of their affiliate marketing efforts.
An affiliate network’s strength is often measured by the diversity of advertisers it hosts. Refersion Marketplace triumphs in this aspect with an impressive lineup of 17,000 advertisers. For beginners, this vast array translates to a plethora of options across various niches. This diversity provides a unique advantage as beginners can explore niches that align with their interests and expertise.
Furthermore, Refersion Marketplace takes an extra step to support beginners by sending out weekly emails listing new advertisers. This proactive approach enables newcomers to stay updated on the latest opportunities, keeping them engaged and motivated to expand their affiliate marketing horizons.
Signup URL: Refersion Marketplace
Offer types: CPS
Payment options: PayPal
Payment terms: Dependant on advertiser
Payment threshold: Dependant on advertiser
Most suited to: New affiliate marketers who are having trouble getting accepted by other platforms.
13. MaxBounty
MaxBounty is an excellent choice for beginners in affiliate marketing due to its clear focus on CPA (Cost Per Action) offers. With a straightforward concept of earning when users complete specific actions like software installations or form submissions, beginners can easily grasp how they earn. The network boasts around 2,000 campaigns covering diverse niches such as online dating and dieting, providing beginners a chance to explore different markets.
The $1,000 cash bonus for affiliates who make over $1,000 in legitimate commissions within the first 90 days is a significant incentive, encouraging beginners to strive for success. The user-friendly dashboard is advantageous for newcomers, offering a modern and clean interface that simplifies navigation.
However, the application and approval process might pose challenges, serving as a valuable learning experience for beginners to understand the intricacies of affiliate networks. While the support might not always be optimal, it presents an opportunity for beginners to develop problem-solving skills and self-reliance.
Most suited to: Established affiliates with plenty of traffic and who need new CPA offers to push.
Signup URL: MaxBounty
Offer types: CPA, CPL and CPI
Payment options: Direct deposit, check, PayPal, Payoneer
Payment terms: TBC
Payment threshold: $50
14. FlexOffers
In the expansive world of affiliate marketing, beginners seek a platform that provides not only an entry point but also room to grow. FlexOffers stands as a nurturing ground where newcomers can not only flourish but also thrive in the affiliate marketing landscape.
The onboarding process can be intimidating for beginners, but FlexOffers simplifies this crucial step. Their straightforward onboarding process ensures that newcomers don’t get overwhelmed by unnecessary complexities, setting the tone for a positive affiliate marketing journey.
Variety is the spice of affiliate marketing, and FlexOffers delivers just that. With a staggering 12,000 advertisers to choose from, beginners have an abundance of options across a wide range of niches. This variety empowers beginners to explore and experiment, finding their niche in the affiliate marketing world.
A standout feature for beginners is FlexOffers’ streamlined interface for filtering advertisers. This tool simplifies the process of finding suitable programs, ensuring that beginners don’t get lost in a sea of options. Additionally, the ability to sort by EPC provides valuable insights that guide beginners toward lucrative opportunities.
But the mentorship doesn’t stop there. FlexOffers goes the extra mile by offering the Flex-Rev$hare program, allowing beginners to earn from their sub-affiliates. This unique revenue-sharing model offers beginners an additional income stream, enhancing their earning potential as they embark on their affiliate marketing journey.
Most suited to: Affiliates who need or want access to the broadest selection of advertisers possible.
Signup URL: FlexOffers
Offer types: CPS, CPL, Flat rate, Per Install
Payment options: Check, Bank transfer, wire transfer, PayPal
Payment terms: Net 60
Payment threshold: $25
15. Avangate Network
For newcomers stepping into the affiliate marketing arena, finding a network that nurtures their growth in the digital landscape is crucial. Avangate Network steps up as a guiding light for beginners, offering a supportive environment tailored to their needs.
Affiliate marketing beginners often seek simplicity, and Avangate Network delivers exactly that. Their straightforward approach to filtering advertisers is a breath of fresh air for those just starting out. This simplicity ensures that beginners can easily identify the programs that align with their interests and target audience.
Understanding the market and making informed decisions is essential for beginners. Avangate Network recognizes this and provides deep linking tools and geo-targeted shopping carts. These tools empower beginners to tailor their marketing efforts, optimizing their chances of success in the competitive affiliate marketing landscape.
The affiliate marketing journey is paved with learning experiences, and Avangate Network encourages beginners to explore with confidence. The availability of free software trials as promotional tools gives beginners an edge in attracting potential customers. This strategic approach opens doors for beginners to build trust and engagement with their audience.
Signup URL: Avangate Network
Offer types: CPS
Payment options: Check, direct deposit, PayPal and Avangate Mastercard
Payment terms: Net 30
Payment threshold: $100
Conclusion
In the realm of affiliate marketing, these 15 programs stand as beacons of opportunity for beginners. With user-friendly interfaces, diverse product ranges, and support structures, they provide a solid foundation for newcomers to thrive. Whether promoting digital products, niche crafts, or well-known brands, these programs offer pathways to success in the dynamic landscape of affiliate marketing. So, seize the chance, embark on your journey, and turn your affiliate aspirations into thriving reality.
Learn more: Best Affiliate Marketing Courses.