I have to admit it took me quite some time before I waded into the slightly murky waters of affiliate marketing. There are dozens of companies out there, roaming the world wide web, recruiting bloggers using various enticing means.

Truth be told, I had no idea what to expect from affiliate marketing.

It seemed a little too good to be true, given the glowing recommendations of some successful bloggers out there. Plus I was terribly intimidated, especially since these companies tend to write in near-impenetrable jargon. It seemed as if professionals were the only ones who could figure out how these money-making machines worked.

As you all know, I did take the jump into the business of affiliate marketing just a few weeks ago when I signed up with PepperJamNetwork. In a few weeks, I have to say the journey has been quite lucrative. Not mind-blogging, but at least the charts are showing a bit of good news.

One thing I particularly like about PJN — and I’m not saying this just to sweet talk you into joining, too — is how everyone seems to be interconnected. Usually, the FAQ of a company is my best friend as I find it very difficult dealing with their representatives.

With PJN, however, it’s the President and CEO (Kris Jones) who actually responds to your email. Pardon the cussing, but no shit — it’s actually him. I have to say you can’t get any better than that.

But you can.

PJN has two tools that bloggers can use to maximize their affiliate marketing strategies. You don’t just follow whatever rules the affiliate program offers (of course you still have to go by their guidelines), you can actually talk to the company and propose your own plan for introducing and promoting their products or services.

First, there’s the PepperJam Chat tool, wherein you can easily talk to representatives of the companies you’re affiliated with using instant messaging. There’s no need for a third-party set-up — you get this feature within the PJN site. As long as the speech bubble icon is blue, you can chat up the company representative and make clarifications or pitch your advertising ideas. How’s that for instant feedback?

Second, you get PJN’s Offer Alerts tool, which allows advertisers to go to you directly. It’s not a one-way trip here; advertisers can check out bloggers who fit their companies’ needs and offer them affiliation directly. There’s nothing to lose here, really. It’s the advertiser who sought you out, so surely they trust that a partnership with you is a good idea. Feel free to explore this relationship! I’m sure you can ask them to design a special promo or banner depending on your marketing idea.

Either way, this just means that PJN has tools that are designed specifically to improve your chances of earning. Be creative, then seek out your advertiser to see if it’s viable.

The best thing about this is that you’re not working with cold, faceless entities. You have control, and you’ve got the tools to keep you connected to the clients — what more do you need?

And don’t forget to take advantage of the $10 sign-up bonus okay?

Good luck!

XOXO,