1 Learn the concept
There are key terms and phrases that you need to navigate an affiliate program like a professional. Knowing the vocabulary helps you read agreements, understand reports and talk with partners. This lesson explains the most common terms.
2 See it in action
- Merchant or advertiser: the business that sells.
- Affiliate or publisher: the partner who promotes.
- Commission: the payment per sale or lead.
- Cookie duration and attribution: how long and to whom a sale is credited.
Worked example
Comparing two programs
Program A: 10 percent, 30-day cookie, EPC $40.
Program B: 15 percent, 24-hour cookie, EPC $20.
Choose: A, since the longer window and higher EPC suggest better earnings.
Check: read the terms for payout thresholds and rules for how sales are counted.
3 Study an example
Example scenario
A new affiliate reads that the cookie period is thirty days and the commission is ten percent. She understands that sales made within a month of the click can earn her a commission.
4 Apply it and download
- Define ten terms in your own words.
- Find them in a sample agreement.
- Save them in a glossary.
Worksheet Affiliate program launch checklistOpen, print or save as PDF