To Performics, or not to Perfomics

[2smokingbarrels]

We've met with most of the major affiliate providers and were leaning toward Performics. I only know of one former colleague whose company uses them and, although her experience has been favorable, they haven't been with Performics that long. I was just curious if anybody from Solid Cactus or anybody else participating in these forums can speak on their level of service. I'd say our second choice would be CJ, as I've had very good experiences with them in the past; I just wasn't sure if they were the right fit for the more niche e-tailer I'm at now.

[cactus_michellep]

To be honest, each has its own benefits and downfalls. CJ & Performics are both fantastic choices (I'm a bit partial to CJ as the interface is a bit more user-friendly).

I have seen affiliate programs succeed in both arenas... but aside from network, the most important thing is the quality of affiliates you bring on-board with your program. Most Super Affiliates work across the networks, so you should have the same "potential" in either network... it's just a matter of recruitment and retention.

Service-wise... again, both have their peaks and pitfalls... just like anything else. As an agency, we have had great experiences with both. But I've heard some grumbles from those who deal on the merchant-level in regards to customer service as well.

Good luck!

[2smokingbarrels]

Hey Michelle, thanks for the response. We have a 2-man marketing team here that is responsible for the marketing of 4 brands and 4 different websites. Performics seemed like a good choice because they seemed to offer more of a full-service solution and would recruit on our behalf (we would, of course, recruit as well). Given limited resources--lets say I dedicate 12 hours per week to affiliate marketing (we have designers to do the creative)--would you revise your answer? Or still reluctant to lean one way or the other. I don't want to get into numbers in this post but if that influences your decision I can PM that information to you. It's difficult to balance PPC, CSEs (that's where you help us), SEO, email marketing and the rest in 40 hours per week with 2 guys; that's one of the main reasons Performics was at the top of potential affiliate providers. I am well-versed with CJ, I just fear that by not being able to give the program 100% it would suffer. I know you don't get an assigned account rep unless you're spending over $X dollars per month so that would leave it on my shoulders so that's why I'm still uneasy about this. Let me know what you think given this additional information and I will (try) not pester you any further. ;-)

[cactus_michellep]

Sounds like your 2 guys have a lot on their shoulders.

Please keep one thing in mind. They "recruit" on your behalf. When you enter a network, you become exposed to a community who will apply to your program on their own. Before you sign ANY contracts, ask straight-up if they RECRUIT on your behalf... are they actually finding publishers for YOUR program. Because many of the networks don't unless you purchase their managed service, which is above and beyond the normal network access.

I think if you dedicate 12 hrs to affiliate marketing each week you should be just fine. Honestly, some weeks you may need less, some you may need almost none at all... it's a matter of time of year, any promotions you have going on, etc etc.

If you are leaning specifically in that direction, please ask many questions before signing, and get full details. I never like to see people walk into contracts without fully understanding the deliverables... if you have specific expectations, make sure they are known and covered.

Side note.... very impressed with your advertising efforts in general. I have a friend who is a big into aquatic horticulture... so I have seen your ads all over the place. Nice job!

[2smokingbarrels]

Hey cactus_michellep, just wanted to acknowledge your response and let you know I appreciate it. Thanks for the kind words as well.

[cactus_michellep]

No problem. If you have any questions along the way, simply ask. I'll try to answer your questions to the best of my ability.