Spotting bad programs
Key takeaways
- Beware programs that charge you to join or push recruiting over selling.
- Beware impossible payouts: huge minimums, endless holds, shifting rules.
- Skip low-quality or overhyped products you would not use yourself.
- Good programs are free to join, clear, and pay fairly on time.
Transcript
Most affiliate programs are honest. But a few are not. Here's how to spot a bad one before it wastes your time. First red flag: they ask you to pay to join, or push you to recruit other people more than to sell a product. That's a warning sign. Second: they make it almost impossible to actually get paid. Huge minimums, endless holds, or rules that keep changing. If getting your money feels like a trap, leave. Third: the product itself is low quality or overhyped. If you'd be embarrassed to recommend it to a friend, don't put your name on it. Good programs are the opposite. Free to join, clear terms, fair payouts on time, and a product you'd happily use yourself. Before you join, search the program's name plus the word review, and read what other affiliates say. Protect your trust. It's your most valuable asset. Promote good things, and skip the rest.
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