First affiliate site

[Ranger85]

Hey all,

I actually have this up in my introduction post but I figured it would get a little more attention if I made one specifically for it.

I'm completely new to affiliate programs, as far as actually putting one up and making it work.

I've put together a website that is based around an online game that I play that has a decent affiliate program and I'm hoping to get a little hand holding since it's my first time in the pool. :-)

URL: http://testsite85.hostoi.com/

Please note that this URL will be changed when I officially launch the site.

But I'm happy to accept advice and suggestions of all types but especially advice on how to draw traffic, how to get them to click "the button" and anything else that would be useful.

I have also written a "newb's guide" for the game that I was thinking of offering for peoples email addresses. The thing about that is though that I read somewhere that it's not as good to collect emails using a one time offer because it could annoy people if you email them later.

So any thoughts there would be awesome as well!

Thank you all ahead of time, I really look forward to working with you and perhaps eventually joining the elite group!

Tristen

[Lynn Terry]

Hi Tristen,

Using an opt-in incentive is a GREAT idea, IF you also tell them upfront they'll also receive weekly tips from you with news and updates - or any new tips for the game. Those emails will be appreciated, especially if they are expected. ;-)

[Ranger85]

I will give that some thought. I'm actually having a hard time thinking of tips that I would be able to offer regularly lol.

Either way, did you get a chance to look at the website?

Before I officially launch it I want to make sure that I have it set up in a way that will get traffic and such. Also I'm not sure about what sort of domain name I should use.

[Lynn Terry]

It's a lot of text on one page. It will overwhelm a visitor to the point that they'll just scan the page. I would break it up into different pages, having each linked in the navigation on the left. Then include a strong call to action (get them excited about the game!) at the end of each shorter page.

You'll also want to test the placement of the two sidebars. Putting the ad on the left may get you more clicks, than having it on the right. Historical heat map data shows objects at the top left get a higher click through rate.

[Ranger85]

Thank you very much for the input!! I take a look at it tonight and see what I can get done!!

Also, as you can see, I have sprung for signing up for your elite group since your price is going up tomorrow. I'm not really sure how that aspect of the forum works and such though. Should I repost another thread in a different place or something?

[Anita Shaw]

Hello Son!

I'm really hoping this site works well for you! I know you have another in mind to do, and I'm sure you'll have the knowledge and skills to get it off the ground once you've done the work on this one.

Yes, go on into the elite forum and introduce yourself and your project there, too. Don't forget to check into the sections that offer free guides for getting traffic and ways of marketing your site. There are some archived brainstorming sessions and webinars you might find helpful. With your cable connection, you probably will be able to view those better than I can with satellite.

I know you're impatient to get this off the ground, but it all takes time and patience. I've found everyone to be friendly and helpful. Hang in there! All good things come to people who work for it!

[cindybidar]

I will give that some thought. I'm actually having a hard time thinking of tips that I would be able to offer regularly lol.

This will get a LOT easier as you talk to your readers. You'll find out that people don't know half the stuff you take for granted as being far too simple to even mention. Will you have a blog or a Facebook page? Those are both good ways to find out just what information people are looking for.

[Lynn Terry]

I've enjoyed brainstorming with you in the private thread so far. This is going to be fun!

I agree with Cindy - Facebook & Twitter are definitely next on the list if you haven't set them up yet for this site. We can go into more detail on that in your private thread and keep it all together there. ;-)