Wise Foods

Affiliate Application FAQ

We qualify all affiliate applications before activation based on a published set of criteria. By design we have instituted a more thorough application review than most networks. The process includes a site ownership confirmation step first, then a manual/human review.

The gatekeeper roll and subsequent activation of new accounts is the best defense against traffic thieves and other scammers. At the initial point of entry we protect the integrity of the network, the hard work of honest/legitimate affiliates and the brand interest of high profile merchants who choose AvantLink for their affiliate programs.

Although some may find it difficult or frustrating to complete the application process, in the long run it’s in the best interest of all relevant parties to maintain the cleanest network in performance marketing. If you have read through the list of FAQs below and still have questions or need assistance please email us.

What types of affiliates/publishers is AvantLink looking for?
We accept the following affiliate categories/classifications: Community, Content, Coupon/Deal, DOTD/ODAT, Loyalty/Rebate, Mobile, Product Comparison/Reviews, Search Engine Marketing, Social Media, Sub-Affiliate Network, Third Party Tool Provider and Toolbar/Add-on. Currently “Email Marketing” affiliates or “CPA/Lead Generation” networks are not being accepted. In general we qualify any affiliate who holds merit and adds value. Publishers that represent a merchant brand in a positive and productive way will qualify. Thin affiliate websites that simply replicate merchant catalogs with no added content/value, incomplete sites or parked domains do not qualify.

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Why are you asking me to prove that I have administrative site access, and confirm my application?
We confront application fraud on a regular basis. In a nutshell, this is the attempt by individuals to gain access to the network with a website that does not belong to them. There are a wide range of nefarious reasons for someone wanting access to an affiliate account. By requiring proof of site ownership (and/or administrative access), we effectively filter most would be scammers at the initial entry point to the network. Your application will not be reviewed for acceptance until you complete the confirmation step.

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How do I get the file upload or JavaScript placement verification to work?
In order to successfully verify your application using the file upload or JavaScript placement methods, you must have access to the root level or homepage of your website. For the JavaScript placement option, you will need to place the JavaScript on your homepage html. This may require manual placement using an FTP program like WinSCP, but with certain sites or blogs you should be able to edit the html source more easily through a content management system. For the file upload option, you will need to use an FTP program. Completing either option authenticates an applicant’s administrative/ownership access to the website they are applying with. Both methods are benign, and will not harm your web server. The script or text file can be deleted immediately once verification is complete.

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Is it possible to be accepted when my site is not yet fully built out, or published?
Generally speaking, no. If you just registered and parked your domain name, or recently launched a blog with little or no content, it’s best to hold off on applying until there is more progress to avoid a denial. However we may make an exception if a good “splash page” or “teaser” exists. If the endeavor and effective launch of your new website would benefit from access to relevant merchants/products, building an appealing promotional page at the domain will be necessary. Without that, most merchants would deny access even if the network were to activate. For those with websites that have not launched be sure there is an outline of promotional plans and a complete description for a better chance at early activation.

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Can I apply using a Facebook, Twitter or YouTube community as the website?
Yes. Our network terms allow affiliates to promote merchants on established social network profiles, or other third party websites, so long as those websites allow users to post affiliate tracking links. If you are applying with a social network profile it should be noted that the same qualifying standards apply to social profiles. For example new/incomplete Facebook pages or limited engagement profiles that do not add value for merchants will not qualify.

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How do I select my “Affiliate Business Classification” on the application?
Classifications include a set of promotional categories we qualify for acceptance. In short, you select the classification that best represents how you will be promoting merchant affiliate programs. This field is required because it allows for a more thorough application review, and it assists merchants with targeted recruiting for their programs (affiliates may opt out for recruiting availability). If you are using a classification or promotional techniques that are not included on our application form, it is not likely you would qualify.

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Do I need to have a website to apply?
Yes, 99% of the time we require a web presence of some kind for activation. If you are an online marketing professional it is a good practice to have some kind of website, even if that means a simple brochure type of site that explains your product or services. For example, if you developed an iPhone app and would like to monetize it with affiliate links, build a one page site promoting the app so merchants know they can accept you to their programs. The same applies for affiliates utilizing paid search, social media marketing or other unconventional tactics. If you submit your application with “google.com” as the website you will be unable to confirm your application.

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Wise Foods

Affiliate Application FAQ

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