In almost every industry, referrals are the gold standard of customer acquisition. Research has repeatedly shown that referred leads close faster, buy more, and stay longer — all with significantly less effort and at a much lower CPA than non-referred prospects. A University of Pennsylvania study[1] found that referred customers are more loyal and profitable — by a 16% margin — than their non-referred counterparts.

A successful referral program isn’t just about using your existing customers to gain new leads. With 74% of consumers identifying word-of-mouth as a key influencer in purchasing decisions and 92% of people ages 18 to 34 saying that they seek recommendations from friends and family before making a purchase, referral marketing is an integral component of today’s marketplace - and one that can yield impressive results if the right tactics are employed. 

Securing partners (and figuring out incentives) for your partner affiliate program are crucial first steps in building a successful partnership. However, maintaining and nurturing relationships as well as delivering the best experience possible can be more important aspects of your partner program. While these elements are sure to be time and resource intensive, they are also closely tied to long-term success. 

It's that time of year - a time to review and reflect on the year behind us, while planning and strategizing for the one ahead. 

For centuries, word-of-mouth marketing (WOMM) has influenced purchasing decisions on everything from buying a new car to restaurant recommendations to software vendors. It’s no coincidence that you and your network share a few of the same favorite things. Who doesn’t love hearing about a great product or service from a trustworthy source? 

When 90% of consumers believe an online review is more compelling than input from a salesperson1, it's important to take advantage of reviews when it comes to your brand's holiday strategy.

With so many online retailers keeping their eye on this holiday season, the competition is likely to be fiercer than ever. Online spending growth is expected to outpace brick-and-mortar expenditures, but many online retailers are still struggling. Whilst eCommerce sales, revenue, and audiences are poised to grow, success isn’t guaranteed and the companies who have done their due diligence to prepare will see their hard work pay off.