by: Ratliff J

This information may be helpful for everyone, regardless of how long
you have been in the affiliate business, or even if you are just
getting started.

First, a good affiliate program can be hard to come by. It needs to
offer decent commissions, accurately track sales, and most
importantly, pay their affiliates in a timely manner.

Many webmasters and internet gurus are doing very well with only a
handful of affiliate programs. Once you find a good one, you kind of
seem to get stuck on it until you are positive you are making every
penny possible.

Before spending a lot of time and money marketing an affiliate
program, always check it out first. There are a number of ways to do
this.

1. Search through an affiliate directory online and look for ratings
or comments. I have my Affiliate Directory setup so people can rate
programs, which helps everyone.

2. Ask them how many affiliate they have, and what the top earners
are making, as well as the average affiliate.

3. Give the program a trial run - just enough to make a few sales
that will allow you to recieve a payment from them. This will ensure
they pay as offered.

4. Keep records.

To see my affiliate program directory, please visit the Affiliate
Program Directory.

TO learn more about becoming an affiliate, or to join a great
affiliate program, check out Make Money Online.


About the Author
J. Ratliff is an affiliate marketer since 1999. He is also the
author of the Affiliate Program Directory.