Looking to discover new traffic sources? You asked, and I’m here to help!
When it comes to expanding your reach, for starters, LinkedIn can be your best friend in this quest. In fact, my personal recommendation is to give your LinkedIn profile some attention. As you know, first impressions matter, and your LinkedIn profile is often the first place potential partners will look.
Moreover, knowing how to use this tool will take you a long way, without even needing to pay for extra features—just by using the search engine. So, here is how you can do it!
1. Start with the LinkedIn Search Bar
First, go to the LinkedIn search bar.
Next, type in keywords related to the type of affiliates you are looking for:
- “Affiliate Marketer”
- “Partnership Manager”
- “Influencer Marketing”
Or, industry-specific terms like “Finance Blogger” if that’s your niche.
2. Use LinkedIn Search Filters
Once LinkedIn shows the search results, you can refine these results by using the available filters to find the most fitting affiliates for your niche.
- Connections: Choose between 1st, 2nd, or 3rd-degree connections.
- 1st-degree connections: People you’re already connected to.
- 2nd-degree connections: Connections of your connections—good for warm outreach.
- 3rd-degree connections: People who are further outside your network—useful for cold outreach.
- Location: If you are looking for affiliates from a specific country.
- Industry: Filter by relevant industries, such as «Marketing & Advertising,» «E-commerce,» «Health & Fitness,» or any niche that matches your business.
- Current or Past Company: You can look for people who have worked in specific companies that are leaders in affiliate marketing or your target industry.
3. Evaluate Profiles
After applying the filters, browse through the profiles to identify who would be a good fit. Be sure to look for people with relevant experience and a proven track record in affiliate marketing.
Industry Forums and Communities
Alternatively, websites like Warrior Forum, Digital Point, STM Forum, and Affpaying are great places to network with professionals and find services. Typically, these platforms have dedicated sections for professionals to connect and collaborate.
Conferences and Events
Another effective strategy is attending industry conferences, webinars, and events. Of course, I understand that attending these events can be costly, especially when you’re just starting out. Nonetheless, they are among the fastest ways to meet the right people, learn from industry leaders, and build valuable connections.
Fortunately, some conferences offer more affordable online versions or even free passes for solo affiliates, so be sure to do your research and consider investing in attending a few. And let’s not forget, they’re a lot of fun!
Bonus Tip: Referrals
Last but not least, don’t underestimate the power of referrals. Make sure to ask your business contacts, peers, or industry colleagues for recommendations. In many cases, personal referrals often lead to trustworthy and experienced professionals.
However, remember to do your due diligence: check reviews and evaluate the expertise and experience of potential media buyers before entering into any agreements. After all, there are many out there who may try to scam you—make it difficult for them.