On What Types of Website Does Amazon Affiliates Make Sense?

I’m still snowed under with work at the moment so don’t have time for a long post, but thought I’d quickly post this little thing.

I was conversing with Carl Morris of the excellent Sleeveface (amongst other things) last week, and we got to talking about when it makes sense to put Amazon Associates on a site. I’ve tried Amazon Associates on a number of websites (some of which no longer exist, and others which do: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7), and based on my experience, this was my take on it (slightly edited):

I think they only really work if:

1. The items you’re linking to are high-value (there’s no point trying to earn 40 cents per DVD sale, it’s just not worth it) – think $100+
2. You can make the most of any Amazon special referral rates (rather than the dismal 4% standard) – think Kindle hardware and seasonal promotions.
3. You have a website or a specific piece of content that ties-in very closely to the Amazon product you’re selling (e.g. product reviews), and
4. The item(s) aren’t easy to purchase ‘off-the-shelf’ in your local supermarket or city mall.

That’s it for now!