Table of Contents
1. Executive Summary
2. Why Does Affiliate Marketing Matter to the Media Ecosystem?
3. A Lackluster Start to the Year
4. Affiliate’s Prospects Vary Drastically by Subchannel
5. Five Trends Shaping the Future of Affiliate Marketing
6. What Do These Trends Mean for You?
7. Insider Intelligence Interviews
8. Sources
9. Media Gallery
Executive Summary
For most of its brief history, affiliate marketing has been an afterthought in the media industry. That might not be true anymore. Affiliate marketing has gone from a niche business to a major player in the overall media ecosystem. With its own unique set of challenges, there are plenty of opportunities for those who are willing to take them. In this article, we look at the five major trends that are driving the future of affiliate marketing.
Why Does Affiliate Marketing Matter to the Media Ecosystem?
The future of affiliate marketing has never been more important than it is today. With traditional media outlets facing an uncertain future, affiliate marketing has become an integral part of the overall media board. Advertising has shifted focus to digital platforms such as Google, Facebook, and other avenues, enabling a new opportunity for affiliate marketing to take hold.
A Lackluster Start to the Year
2020 was a tough year for media, and affiliate marketing was by no means exempt. Many advertisers, publishers, and networks saw a substantial decline in revenues and churn rates. As a result, many businesses had to adjust their strategies, and some even shuttered completely.
Affiliate’s Prospects Vary Drastically by Subchannel
Though the overall picture of 2020’s affiliate landscape wasn’t great, the reality varies greatly from subchannel to subchannel. Mobile advertising, for example, was one of the most resilient subchannels amidst the turbulence of last year. Whereas mobile numbers soared, traditional web-based affiliate marketing faced steep declines.
Five Trends Shaping the Future of Affiliate Marketing
1. Increased Adoption of AI Technology
2. Increased Focus on Programmatic Advertising
3. Growing Use of Influencers
4. Increased Accountability in Partnerships
5. Greater Need for Diversified Revenue Streams
What Do These Trends Mean for You?
The future of affiliate marketing looks to be full of opportunity for those who are willing to take the necessary steps to stay relevant. With advances in AI technology and increased focus on programmatic advertising, many organizations are already shifting focus onto these new areas. By partnering with influencers, affiliates can further enhance their reach and build trust amongst their customers. Finally, diversifying your revenue stream is essential to any business and is especially important in affiliate marketing.
Insider Intelligence Interviews
We had the chance to speak with two experts on the matter. Khalid, an affiliate marketing expert with over 10 years of experience, stressed the importance of staying on top of the latest industry trends. He emphasized the need to understand the customer’s needs and provide targeted solutions. Stephen, a publisher who long relied on affiliate revenues for his business, noted the importance of building trust with one’s customers. He explained that his success had been due to his ability to connect with his customers and create long-lasting relationships.
Sources
1. “Affiliate Marketing Statistics You Need to Know in 2021,” Affiliatly, 15 January 2021
2. “5 Trends That Are Transforming Affiliate Marketing,” Zine, 11 May 2021
Media Gallery
Please feel free to check out our media gallery to see a compilation of all the statistics, images, and charts used in this article.
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