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How to Find Affiliate Links That Actually Work for You

If you’ve ever clicked a link in a blog post or social media recommendation that led you to something helpful—or sparked an aha! moment—there’s a good chance it was an affiliate link. But for writers, creators, and entrepreneurs, affiliate links can also be more than helpful—they can become a meaningful income stream that feels aligned with your message. Let’s make them sparkle.

I have signed up for more affiliate links/partnerships than I can remember, but never really had the time – or so I keep saying in finding excuses- but not anymore. Passive income is a real thing and can help build a nest egg.

 So, if you are ready to really start working those affiliate links, let's go on this journey together. 

1. Start with Authenticity

Your affiliate links should feel like friendly recommendations, not pitches. Ask yourself:

  • What do I already use and love?
  • What would I genuinely tell a friend to use?

When your recommendations are real, your audience trusts them—and trust converts into clicks and sales. I usually click on links from people I trust. And quite often, I make a purchase.

In revisiting affiliate marketing, I have decided to start with sites that I often use and benefit from, so I am sharing these. 

2. Amazon Associates: The Evergreen Starter

Amazon Associates is one of the most versatile affiliate programs because Amazon sells almost everything. With your affiliate ID, you can link to books, tools, gadgets, and any other products that align with your content. There is rarely a week that goes by that I do not buy something from Amazon.

Sign-up: Amazon Associates

I am into gardening, and I have found these grow bags great for my vegetables. These grow bags work in limited space, so I can layer what I plant on a table with shelves and grow lots of vegetables and herbs. I will report when I start reaping.

3. Alison Affiliate Program: Share Learning (and Earn!)

Alison offers free online courses in business, languages, IT, and more. As an affiliate, you earn a commission when people sign up through your link—perfect if you write about personal growth or career skills.

Sign-up: Alison Affiliate Program

If you are like me and love learning new things, Alison is great, and it is free. If you need a certificate, you will need to pay, but the payment is small compared to the value of the courses. I am all about learning how to master ChatGPT, and some great bite-sized courses can be found here. I am doing ChatGPT for Beginners.

4. Travel Writing School: For Seasoned and Aspiring Travel Writers

If your niche touches travel, lifestyle, or writing, The Travel Writing Skool is an excellent space to share with fellow travel writers. Some are ot-published experts, and others are starting like me. The Travel Writing Skool is a fun space with great lessons, feedback and lively interactions. The affiliate program is a natural fit if you are into this niche. It helps you learn and grow as a travel writer while providing an income stream. Talk about win-win.

Affiliate page: The Travel Writing Skool. So, if travel writing is in your blood, hop on over and become a member. 

5. Make It Sparkle One lesson I have learned about affiliate marketing is not to just drop links randomly. Curate them! here are some examples:

When links are woven into your stories, they shine—because they feel authentic, they are genuine and helpful.

Final Thoughts

Affiliate marketing works best when it’s about value and trust. Whether it’s a book list on Amazon, a free Alison course, or a writing video, a list of places to pitch on The Travel Writing Skool, your recommendations should serve your readers—and reflect your brand.

Remember, when your readers win, you win too.

 


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