Don't Choose a Program Just Because It Pays a Big Commission
A 50% commission might sound much better than a 5% commission, but that doesn't necessarily mean you'll make more money. Before promoting something, look at the product itself. Is it something your visitors would actually want? Is the company reputable? Are the price and claims reasonable? Would you feel comfortable recommending it to someone you know? Your visitors' trust is worth more than one commission.
Understand How Tracking Works
When someone clicks your affiliate link, the merchant or affiliate network normally uses tracking technology to determine whether a later purchase should be credited to you. One important detail is the attribution or tracking window. Some programs provide a relatively short window while others provide considerably longer periods.
Don't judge a program by cookie duration alone. Also look at:
Commission rates
What purchases qualify
Attribution rules
Payment thresholds
Payment schedule
Refunds and reversals
Available payment methods
Product reputation
Reporting and tracking tools
Read the program's current terms because these details can change.
Protect Your Reputation
I believe an affiliate should think about the reader before thinking about the commission. If you recommend poor-quality products simply because they pay large commissions, people may eventually stop trusting your recommendations. Research what you're promoting. When possible, actually use or evaluate the product. Explain both the advantages and disadvantages instead of making every review sound like an advertisement. And don't claim you've personally tested a product when you haven't. FTC guidance says endorsements should reflect the endorser's honest opinions and experience. Federal Trade Commission
Tell Your Readers When You May Earn a Commission
There's nothing wrong with earning money from affiliate links. Just be open about it. For example, i could place this near the beginning of an article containing affiliate recommendations:
Affiliate Disclosure: Some links on this page are affiliate links. If you make a qualifying purchase through one of these links, E4R2 may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. That's much clearer than simply labeling something an "affiliate link." In fact, FTC guidance specifically cautions that consumers might not understand that the words “affiliate link” alone mean the publisher can earn money from purchases. Federal Trade Commission
Free Affiliate Programs to Explore
Here are several established programs/networks you can investigate for E4R2. Free signup doesn't guarantee acceptance, and individual advertisers may have additional requirements.