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Despite the big number affiliate marketing still has lots of convincing to do

The argument that affiliate marketers need to do more to educate advertisers about their proper role and value is a fair point. It’s one that I think few affiliate marketers would argue against. The education of clients is key to the growth and development of any industry, particularly one as young as affiliate marketing. However, like other commenters, I take issue with your implication that affiliate marketers must address allegations of “stealing traffic” and “skimming links.” While there are no doubt some unscrupulous affiliate marketers that take such unethical actions (just like there are bad actors in every industry), the fact is that the vast majority of affiliate marketers do no such thing and operate above board in all of their operations. Taking that point a step further, if you are in need of affirmation from the US market of affiliate marketing’s value to major advertisers, look no further than major brands like Home Depot, Sears, Nielsen, Discover and CarpetONE. Each has utilized OPM in one form or another in recent years and each has experienced significant growth and improvements in lead generation, customer acquisition and brand awareness as a result. The reality is that the affiliate marketing industry that you try to paint a picture of from 2007 nothing like it does in 2013. This week’s IAB report reaffirms that point. Keith Trivitt Director, Marketing and Communications MediaWhiz

Wed, 23 Jan 2013

2:46 pm