How to Create an Affiliate Program for Your Digital Products
You've poured your heart and soul into creating an incredible digital product—an ebook, a course, maybe some killer templates. Now, how do you get it out into the world and turn that hard work into real results? One of the most effective strategies is to create an affiliate program.
Here's the idea: you provide the amazing product, and other creators help spread the word to their audiences. They earn a commission on each sale, and you expand your reach and boost your revenue. It's a mutually beneficial partnership that can significantly grow your business.
Let's talk about platforms. Two popular options you've likely come across are Beacons and Stan.Store, aka just Stan. They're all-in-one solutions designed for creators, offering everything from website building and email marketing to (you guessed it) affiliate programs. Here’s a quick overview:
Beacons
Beacons is a powerful tool that allows you to create a streamlined link-in-bio page, connecting all your online platforms. But it's more than just a link hub. It also enables you to sell digital products directly, automate email marketing, and even build a simple website.
A major advantage of Beacons is its accessibility. Many key features, including affiliate programs, are available on their free plan, making it a great option for creators at any stage.
Stan.Store
Stan provides a comprehensive platform for selling digital products. It offers features like sales funnels to optimize the customer journey, appointment scheduling for coaching or consultations, and advanced email marketing capabilities to nurture your audience.
Stan also includes a robust affiliate program feature, empowering you to expand your reach and drive sales.
Setting Up Your Affiliate Links on Beacons
Here’s a step-by-step guide to setting up an affiliate program for your digital product on Beacons:
1. Select Your Product: Navigate to the “Store Item” section and choose the digital product you want to offer through your affiliate program.
2. Access Affiliate Sharing: Click on the “Affiliate Share” option. This is where you’ll manage your affiliate program settings.
3. Define Commissions: Click the “+ New Affiliate Link” button and set the commission percentage you’ll offer to your affiliates. A competitive commission rate is key to attracting and motivating affiliates.
4. Copy Your Link: Once you’ve set the commission, click “Copy Link.” Your unique affiliate link is now ready to be shared.
5. Connect with Affiliates: Share your affiliate link with individuals or businesses who are interested in promoting your product. Consider creating promotional materials, such as graphics and social media copy, to make it easier for them to share.
Important Note: To become an affiliate for your product on Beacons, individuals must have their own Beacons account. This ensures accurate sales tracking and proper commission payouts.
Setting Up the Affiliate Share Feature on Stan.Store
Stan offers a streamlined process for enabling affiliate sharing:
1. Locate Your Product: Go to the “My Store” tab and select the product you want to offer through affiliates.
2. Access Options: Click on “Options” and then select the “Affiliate Share” dropdown.
3. Enable Affiliate Sharing: Toggle on “Enable Affiliate Share” to allow customers who purchase your product to resell it and earn a commission.
4. Set the Commission Rate: Enter the desired commission percentage in the provided field.Establish Terms and Conditions: Click the “Settings Icon” to create and customize the terms and conditions for your affiliate program. Clear terms are essential for a smooth and successful partnership.
5. Publish Your Product: Once you’ve finalized your terms, toggle them on and click “Close.” Then, publish your product to activate the affiliate sharing feature.
6. Affiliate Onboarding: After a customer purchases your product, they will receive an email containing their unique affiliate link. They will be prompted to accept your terms and conditions before they can begin promoting your product.
Good Luck as You Create an Affiliate Program!
With platforms like Beacons and Stan.Store, setting up an affiliate program for your digital products is more accessible than ever. It's a powerful way to expand your reach, build partnerships, and ultimately, grow your business.
Ready for the next step in your marketing plan? I highly recommend you promote your products on Pinterest!