Alright, this is your shot to turn things around. If you’re tired of watching others make money online while you’re stuck wondering how to get started, pay close attention. People just like you are cashing in on Amazon, and there’s absolutely no reason you can’t do the same. It’s time to stop dreaming and start doing.
Step 1: Stop Overthinking—Start Creating
Before anything else, you need to understand this: content is king. But it doesn’t have to be perfect, and you don’t need a million-dollar setup to create it. Grab your phone, start recording, and keep it real. Whether it’s an unboxing, a quick review, or a how-to video, your audience wants authenticity, not Hollywood production. Start with what you have, and refine as you go. The key is to start. Right now.
Step 2: Get the Right Links—Your Cash Flow Starts Here
Now, let’s talk about the engine behind your earnings: affiliate links. Here’s how you get those:
- Sign Up for the Amazon Influencer Program
If you haven’t already, apply for the Amazon Influencer Program. You need a decent social media following to qualify, but once you’re in, you’re in the money. You’ll get access to your very own Amazon storefront where you can curate lists of products. - Create Your Storefront
Once accepted, you’ll set up your storefront. This is where you showcase the products you love and recommend. Think of it as your personal shopping page where your followers can browse and buy. - Add Products to Your Storefront
Now comes the fun part. Add products to your storefront that you believe in. When you find a product on Amazon that you want to promote, click “Add to List” from the product page. It will be added to your storefront. - Generate Your Affiliate Links
To generate the affiliate link for any product, head to your Amazon Associates dashboard (you get this automatically when you join the program). Search for the product, click on it, and you’ll see an option to get the link. This link is what you’ll share with your audience, and every time they click and buy, you get a commission.Pro Tip: Always use Amazon’s “SiteStripe” bar that appears at the top of your screen when logged into your Associates account. It allows you to generate affiliate links directly from any Amazon product page with just a click.
Step 3: Automate Like a Boss with ManyChat
Automation is where you go from working hard to working smart. ManyChat is your ticket to making money while you sleep. Here’s how you can set it up:
- Create a ManyChat Account
Sign up for ManyChat and connect it to your Instagram and Facebook accounts. This tool will allow you to send automated messages to anyone who interacts with your content. - Set Up a Basic Automation
Let’s say you post a video about a product on Instagram. Someone comments on the post asking where to buy it. ManyChat can automatically reply to that comment with a message that says, “Check your DMs for the link!” and then send the affiliate link directly to their inbox.Example: You post a video about your favorite blender on Instagram. Someone comments, “Where can I get this?” ManyChat automatically replies, “I just sent you the link—check your messages!” Then, the tool sends them a DM with your deep affiliate link, leading them straight to the product on Amazon. - Create Custom Triggers and Flows
The beauty of ManyChat is in its automation flows. You can set it up so that whenever someone comments a specific keyword (e.g., “blender”), ManyChat automatically sends them a message with the affiliate link.Example: Post a TikTok showing a quick recipe using the blender. In the caption, say something like, “Want this blender? Comment ‘BLEND’ and I’ll send you the link!” When someone comments “BLEND,” ManyChat triggers the automation and sends them the link to buy the blender on Amazon. - Follow Up for More Sales
ManyChat can also be used to follow up. Set up a sequence of messages that provide additional value and gentle nudges to convert a curious follower into a buyer.Example: After sending the initial link, follow up a day later with a message like, “Still thinking about that blender? Here’s why it’s the best out there…” and provide a quick list of benefits with a link to purchase.
Step 4: Overcome Link Limitations on TikTok and Instagram
Alright, here’s where it gets tricky. TikTok and Instagram don’t allow clickable links in posts or comments, so you have to get creative. Here’s how:
- Use Your Bio Effectively
Place your affiliate link or a link to your Amazon storefront in your bio. Every time you post about a product, direct your followers to the link in your bio.Example: “Want this product? Link in bio!”For better results, use a link aggregator like Stan Store or Linktr.ee to create a single link that leads to multiple products or your storefront. This way, you can easily update it based on what you’re promoting. - Leverage Stories and Highlights
Use Instagram Stories to share your affiliate links. When you hit 10K followers, you can add “Swipe Up” links directly in your Stories. If you don’t have 10K followers yet, guide your audience to click the link in your bio. Save these stories to a Highlight titled something like “Shop My Faves” so it’s always accessible.Example: Post a Story demoing a product and say, “Swipe up to grab it!” or “Check out the link in my bio to get yours.” - Create Link Triggers
If you’re using ManyChat, you can set up triggers that send links to users who comment on your posts. These links can be to your storefront, a specific product, or a link aggregator in your bio.Example: “Comment ‘SHOP’ below, and I’ll send you the link to this product!”
Step 5: Expand Your Reach with Content Strategy
You’re already posting on TikTok and Instagram, but let’s take it further. Here’s how you can maximize your content strategy:
- Cross-Platform Promotion
Repurpose your content across platforms. A video on TikTok can become a Reel on Instagram, a pin on Pinterest, and a short on YouTube. This way, you reach a broader audience with minimal extra effort.Example: A TikTok video about a product can be uploaded as an Instagram Reel, pinned to Pinterest with a link to your storefront, and posted as a YouTube Short. Each platform has its audience, and repurposing content ensures you’re covering all bases. - Email Marketing
Don’t just rely on social media—build an email list. Use tools like Mailchimp or ConvertKit to collect emails from your followers. Offer them something of value (like a discount code, exclusive tips, or a free guide) in exchange for their email, and then market your affiliate products to them via email.Example: “Sign up for my exclusive tips on how to use [Product] and get 10% off your next purchase!” Once they’re on your list, send them regular updates and product recommendations. - Collaborate with Other Influencers
Partnering with other influencers can expand your reach. Collaborate on content, share each other’s posts, or do a giveaway together. This exposes your affiliate links to a whole new audience.Example: Team up with a fellow influencer to create a “Best of Amazon Finds” series, where you both share your favorite products. Each of you promotes the series to your audience, doubling your exposure.
Step 6: Analyze and Optimize
Finally, success in affiliate marketing isn’t just about setting things up—it’s about constantly refining your approach. Here’s what you need to do:
- Track Your Links
Use tools like Bitly or Pretty Links to track how many clicks your links are getting. This helps you understand which platforms and strategies are driving the most traffic and sales.Example: You notice that links in your Instagram bio are getting more clicks than those on TikTok. Focus more energy on Instagram, or tweak your TikTok strategy. - Test Different Approaches
Try different types of content, posting times, and CTAs (Calls to Action) to see what resonates best with your audience. Don’t be afraid to experiment.Example: Test whether a direct “Buy Now” CTA works better than a softer approach like “Check this out!” Adjust based on what drives more clicks and conversions. - Engage with Your Audience
Pay attention to comments, DMs, and feedback. Engage with your audience, answer their questions, and refine your content based on what they want. The more engaged your audience, the more likely they are to click your links and buy.Example: If followers keep asking for recommendations on a certain type of product, create content around it. Give the people what they want, and they’ll reward you with their clicks.
About Lori Ballen
Lori Ballen isn’t just another name in the affiliate marketing world—she’s a trailblazer. With over a million in earnings through affiliate marketing, Lori’s expertise lies in turning everyday activities into powerful income streams. She’s on a mission to empower others to achieve financial freedom through smart, actionable strategies. Lori’s content, whether it’s her blog, courses, or workshops, is packed with practical advice that gets results. If you’re ready to take control of your financial future, Lori is the mentor you’ve been looking for.
