Affiliate Marketing - The Difference Between Getting Paid...And Not!

Have you ever recommended a product to your friends, family members or co-workers? Perhaps the latest gadget, jersey or cooking utensil?

If you have, then you understand the power of referral marketing. Which is really just another name for affiliate marketing.

Now imagine if you get paid for each and every referral. Yes! Imagine if you get paid a commission every time your friend buys the service or product you recommend. This is the philosophy behind affiliate marketing.

Affiliate marketing is currently the fastest growing business model on the web. However, it still remains a secret in many quarters. It is an invisible business where lots of money is made.

Companies love this model because their profit margins are extremely high; they do not have to spend any money on advertising. Their affiliates are acting as their sales force.

All you have to do is head over to websites like Associate Programs or LinkShare and find an affiliate program related to a product in this niche. Sign up for free and start marketing your affiliate link! The key to success in affiliate marketing is these three components: Market, Product and Marketing. The most successful affiliate marketers implement an integrated marketing campaign that is wide and deep.

Now, wouldn't you want to be different from the rest of the population? Wouldn't you want to be paid for your 'marketing' efforts? Rather than helping a big company get rich everyday through your recommendations, you can gain a piece of the pie too.