Ever seen someone on YouTube or Instagram recommending a product with a link in their bio?
That’s affiliate marketing — a simple way to earn money by promoting other people’s products online.
The best part? You don’t need to create your own product to earn — you just promote and earn a commission for every sale made through your link.
What is Affiliate Marketing?
Affiliate marketing is when you earn money for recommending someone else’s product or service.
You get a unique link (called an affiliate link) — and when someone buys through your link, you earn a percentage of the sale.
Example:
You promote a skincare product on Instagram. Someone clicks your affiliate link and buys it. You get ₹200 as commission — even though you didn’t create or deliver the product.
Why Affiliate Marketing is Great for Beginners
No product needed – You promote existing products
Free to start – Just sign up for programs like Amazon or Meesho
Earn from home – All you need is a phone and internet
Flexible – Work any time, from anywhere
Scalable – Promote multiple products and earn from all
How Affiliate Marketing Works (Step-by-Step)
Join an Affiliate Program
Choose sites like Amazon Associates, Meesho, Digistore24, ClickBank, etc.
Pick Products You Trust
Always promote something you believe in or have used — it builds trust.
Get Your Affiliate Link
The platform gives you a special tracking link.
Promote the Product
Share your link on your Instagram, blog, YouTube, or WhatsApp.
Earn Commission
When someone clicks and buys — you get paid!
Where Can You Promote Affiliate Products?
-
- Instagram Reels – Share tips and link in bio
- YouTube – Do product reviews and drop links in description
- Blog – Write how-to guides or comparisons (internal link: [How to Start a Blog])
- WhatsApp/Telegram – Share product links with your contacts
- Pinterest – Post visuals with affiliate links
Smart Tips for Affiliate Marketing Success
- Be Honest – Don’t oversell or fake reviews
- Focus on Niche – Promote products in a specific topic like fashion, tech, or wellness
- Track Your Links – Use tools like Bitly or your affiliate dashboard
- Stay Consistent – Post regularly and give helpful info
- Build Trust – People buy from those they trust
Best Affiliate Platforms for Beginners
If you’re just starting out, here are some trusted platforms to explore:
- Amazon Associates – Great for beginners, offers products in almost every category
- Meesho – Perfect for promoting fashion and home products in India
- ClickBank – Best for digital products and courses with high commission
- Digistore24 – Offers global digital products, software, and online tools
- EarnKaro – Easy-to-use Indian app with affiliate offers from major brand
Choose one or two based on your audience and niche, and begin experimenting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Promoting too many unrelated products
- Copy-pasting links without any context
- Ignoring your audience’s needs
- Not checking product quality
Final Thoughts
Affiliate Marketing is one of the easiest ways to start earning online.
You don’t need a website or investment — just honesty, effort, and consistency.
Start by picking one platform, focus on a niche you enjoy, and share content that helps people.
The more value you give, the more trust (and clicks!) you’ll earn
Written by Priyanshi Jain
Delhi, India | digitalpriyanshi.com