Affiliate Programs: Ad Copy Dilemmas - Good or Bad?

Other affiliate deals provide herd ads that never impress anyone. It then becomes essential to re-write the ad or hire an ad copy service. We now face the problem of obtaining permission to change words in ads or quit the affiliate game.

Well ..for the most part, they usually do their jobs. They DO inspire action. Some of these Ad Copy writers well know their craft. They know the emotional triggers that help earn sales. Many of them do what works for them........

Guess what - it may not work for us any longer! It may not work the 'old way' anymore.

Are you wondering "why" ?

Well, I believe the times have changed. It's time for the Affiliate Program Owners to wake up and realize ..... that affiliates who represent them, NEED responsible ad copy!

Quite frankly, in my opinion, some ad copy used in ads, as well as webtext on various websites, could be in violation of the FTC guidelines. I belong to one particular affiliate program, where the solo ad copy presented, had some rather obvious FTC violations.

I was concerned, so I wrote the affiliate company and pointed out where they should consider changing some words ... I've yet to hear back from them about my comments and opinions.

Do they expect affiliates to assume these risks?

Imagine the "Newbie", finding the latest, greatest program. This Newbie has been on the Net just long enough to recognize the names of some of the "popular" promoters that abound in business advertising circles.

What DO "new" affiliates think when they see the same names over and over again?

It's reasonable to assume that the affiliate thinks, "Well, this guru (marketer, or whatever) is involved. They know what they are doing. It should be ok to promote it."

My response: Yes, popular marketers DO make a name for themselves and many ARE top money earners. However, you can't trust any risky ad copy or website text, no matter WHERE it comes from.

I've had an advertiser tell me, "Well, that's the ad that the company gave me to use! "

My response: "That may be true, however that doesn't necessarily mean it's a GOOD ad. Does it comply with FTC guidelines? Remember, a LOT of affiliates may be running the same ad!

That could possibly raise the risk factor, if the ad doesn't meet FTC criteria.

In my opinion, affiliate programs need to:

1.) Ensure that they use AND provide FTC friendly ad copy. Their websites should comply as well as provide an example to follow. In my opinion, they should allow AND encourage ad editing by their affiliates, or pay someone to write FTC friendly ads for affiliates to distribute. I've heard SOME affiliate programs won't allow provided ad copy to be changed ... geesh!

2.) While most have a "Strict No Spamming Policy", they should also provide links to the FTC site AND encourage Responsible Advertising.

3.) Respond in a timely matter through their 'support' system. I believe if they don't reply within two - three business days, it's probably time to move on.

Listen, I'm not an expert on this topic, yet. I'm just a regular person with a bit of experience ... and perhaps a bit of street smarts and e-savvy thrown in. I'm still learning, so I invite you to pay attention to your ad copy. The fines can be very steep for violations so be diligent! It's the law.

That being said, Please do NOT take anything written here as legal advice. My opinions and comments are NOT meant to supercede or replace the FTC guidelines. http://www.ftc.gov The FTC is "THE" only authority that can decide whether ad copy is within the law or not. Look to them for guidance. I sure do.

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Phillip Fuller publishes both Straight To The Point and Quick Pick Ads. He strives to give you a wealth of resources, opportunities, tools and fresh ideas that will help you start or grow your business. We help you find what you need to succeed Subscribe today! http://ebizprofits4u.com ============================

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