Should I Let Affiliates Buy Through Their Own Link?

Q: Should I allow my affiliates to buy my products through their own affiliate link?

A: I actually get this question a lot from business owners who are just starting their affiliate program and even from those who have a program set up already. Some affiliate managers allow their affiliates to buy their product using their own affiliate links and that’s ok, but I personally don’t allow my affiliates to do so.

The reason I don’t allow it is because of the potential for abuse. Many people will sign up for an affiliate program specifically for the self-serving discount. This can cause possible problems down the line, just a few of which include:

1. The original referrer is missing out on their commission, when in all reality they are the ones who deserve it in the first place.

2. Not only does this take someone else’s hard earned money from them, but many times the person signs up only to get the discount and never intends to become an active affiliate in the first place.

If someone really wants to review one of my products and they plan on becoming an active affiliate, they should approach the product owner directly for any reviews or discounts. An affiliate program is not meant for self-serve discounts.

Have other questions about setting up or running your own affiliate program? Check out my Affiliate Manager Sweetie.