Ask How can an new startup business find affiliate marketers?

[vanie23]

I'm new to marketing and trying to figure out the best way to get started with affiliates.

If you're running a startup with almost no social following or audience yet, how do you actually find people willing to promote your business? Is the right approach to:

• ⁠Cold outreach (e.g. to consultants, creators, or bloggers)?
• ⁠Use affiliate networks / marketplaces? I don't know any and the ones I found only help you track, they don't connect you with people who'll promote your business.
• ⁠Recruit from communities like here?

Also curious about structure: would a lifetime affiliate partnership make sense for early adopters, or should it be commission-based per sale/monthly subscription? or a hybrid approach, or else?

Would love to hear what's worked for you all

 

[Daniel084]

Cold outreach can work, but you need to be really strategic about it. Look for micro-influencers or bloggers in your niche who have engaged audiences but aren't working with tons of brands yet. They're more likely to respond and try new products. Focus on people who genuinely align with what you're selling rather than just anyone with a following. For structure, I'd suggest starting with higher commission rates to attract early adopters - maybe 30-50% for the first few months, then adjusting based on what works. Lifetime partnerships sounds good but can get expensive if someone becomes really successful promoting you.

 

[Felix😎]

To find affiliate marketers, start by identifying people in your niche who already have an audience, like bloggers, YouTubers, or social media influencers. Reach out to them directly with an offer to join your affiliate program. You can also post about your program on forums, business groups, or platforms like LinkedIn. If you're using an affiliate network, make sure your program stands out by offering fair commissions and providing clear details. Building relationships with marketers takes time, but it's worth it for long-term success.

 

[Mandela]

I'm new to marketing and trying to figure out the best way to get started with affiliates.

If you're running a startup with almost no social following or audience yet, how do you actually find people willing to promote your business? Is the right approach to:

• ⁠Cold outreach (e.g. to consultants, creators, or bloggers)?
• ⁠Use affiliate networks / marketplaces? I don't know any and the ones I found only help you track, they don't connect you with people who'll promote your business.
• ⁠Recruit from communities like here?

Also curious about structure: would a lifetime affiliate partnership make sense for early adopters, or should it be commission-based per sale/monthly subscription? or a hybrid approach, or else?

Would love to hear what's worked for you all

Another method that works well is creating your own affiliate program page on your website. I've noticed that when businesses clearly explain commission structure, tracking method, and payout system, it becomes easier for affiliates to take them seriously. Clarity is a big factor.