Bruce Clayton - Biggest Mistakes made in international Affiliate Marketing

5 Mistakes in International Affiliate Marketing

Bruce ClaytonDirector

Existem Affiliate Management

Background

Co-founder of Existem Affiliate Management

Award winning UK based management agency

7 years affiliate marketing experience with network / agency

Account managed many retail accounts in UK / USA and EU

Preface

Drawn from my experiences in EU and USA

No specific merchants cited to protect the innocent

Designed to be a checklist of consideration

Builds on Robert's examination of territories

5 Considerations

Culture

Currency

Cost

Coverage

Communication

Culture

Each territory has a distinct buying culture

Each territory may have a distinct language

Look and feel of indigenous websites may have their own “norm”

Brand “dominance” may be different in each territory

Each country has unique affiliate community / forum

Currency

Exchange rates

Payment methods

Returns policy / consumer law

Correct format of currency

Cost

Network fees

Initially can be costly vs. return

New territories take time to establish

Coverage

Each territory has a unique network hierachy

Multiple network partners for guaranteed cover maximisation

Single networks not always the answer

Communication

Language, Language, Language!

Translation required for non-visual products

Affiliate communications

Forum communications

5 Great Mistakes

One size fits all websites

Accurate tracking of sales to countries

Great expectations

Lack of communication

Not addressing the audiences

Maximising Results

Investigate each target market

Look at what sales your home site has made

Gradual territory roll out

Consider network managed package or agency assistance

Ensure website addresses all territories in own currency

Ensure terms and conditions address all target markets

Maximising Results 2

Tailor communications to reflect market differences

Ensure any site banners / promotions are tailored

Research local affiliate forums / communication channels

Consider resource constraints and requirements

Consider outsourcing options

Conclusion

Successful international affiliate marketing is an extension of effective management

Requires resource and time

Recognise where you need to adapt

Accept that things take time

Contact Details

Bruce ClaytonDirector

Existem Affiliate Managementwww.existem-am.com

01752 426264/ 07841 628338bruce@existem-am.com