The New Requirement For Effective PR? Affiliate Marketing
As the traditional media business model of selling ads has become less lucrative (Business of Fashion), publishers have sought alternative ways to generate revenue. In result, affiliate marketing income has helped offset losses in print ad revenue. Affiliate marketing is defined as an arrangement by which an online retailer (i.e. beauty brand) pays commission to an external website for traffic or sales generated from its referrals (i.e. publisher). So, each time someone purchases from an affiliate link, publishers like Vogue, Allure, and Forbes earns a percentage of the profits.
According to Business of Fashion, “to nab a mention in a major publication online, offering affiliate links has become something of a requirement in today’s media landscape.” For many beauty brands looking to land coverage in prominent publications, affiliate marketing is a must have. While some publications still feature products and services without an affiliate link, truth is, affiliate links increase a brand’s chances of securing premium coverage.
One of the most popular affiliate platforms for beauty and lifestyle brands is ShareASale. ShareASale is a leading affiliate marketing network that partners with popular publishers like Meredith, Conde Nast, CNN, Business Insider and more. It allows you to set up tracking and recruit affiliates to help expand your digital footprint and connect with your target audience.
As we look toward the future, affiliate marketing is set to become more popular not only with editors and publishers but also influencers. Ensuring that your marketing strategy incorporate affiliate links will ensure that you’re not losing out on valuable data and opportunities.
In other news…
Meta officially launched their paid verification program in the US. Users can now purchase a blue checkmark on Facebook or Instagram. Meta Verified requires users to provide photo ID to prove their identity. Once approved, users will pay $11.99 per month on the web, or $14.99 in-app to receive a verification check mark on Facebook or Instagram, proactive account protection, dedicated account support, and exclusive stickers. However, according to reports, Meta will no longer be offering increase reach for Meta Verified users. You may join the waitlist by clicking here.