Affiliate marketing is a method by which an individual gets paid for successfully promoting another persons product or service. This method allows a new internet marketer to make money online with out the headaches of product development, website design, or customer service. The marketer is paid when a particular act such as a submission or purchase is made. Many merchants are more than happy to split the profits with the internet marketer since the marketer is providing the necessary work and cost to promoting. There are several e-commerce sites that the new and experienced marketer can join and begin promoting products and services immediately. Affiliate marketing has increased profit margins for some merchants by more than 15-20% and the trend shows no signs of slowing. Why participate in an affiliate program? It allows becoming a home based business owner on a part time basis while you get your feet wet. Affiliate marketing has created many millionaires as it is one of the best methods to create a significant income. These outcomes came from great training, hard work, prospecting and self motivation. If you are seriously considering affiliate marketing, don't be mistaken, your results will be directly related to what you are willing to put in it. Here are the top 5 keys to consider when choosing an affiliate program to promote: 1. a product or service that you like and have interest in. In other words, would you buy it? This is one of the best indicators of knowing whether this a good program to promote. If you think you would purchase a particular product or service, chances are someone else will too. 2. Look for a program that has a few known guru testimonials on it, these will most likely be of high quality. Most gurus have a reputation they need to protect. Many multi-millionaire gurus got their start as affiliates and often create their own products. These comments give some assurance that the standards of the program are solid. 3. Do a little market research on the products first. If you can track down a forum and ask the members their opinions on the product, do so. These user testimonials are helpful, but be sure to keep in mind that some people just buy to buy and may not give you a fair assessment. Be sure to do your market research and feel comfortable that current users are happy with the product. 4. The program is in high demand and its market is growing. This will ensure that you will be able to make money in this program for many months and years to come. Most e-commerce sites track the data on each program offered do your due diligence. 5. There are many programs offering the promoters great ratios. Keep on the lookout for these. Don't waste your efforts promoting programs that aren't willing to pay you what you deserve. Be sure you research your product and use the 5 keys to consider as your guide. You must have the proper training necessary before you start promoting. Although millions can be made in affiliate marketing, only those with the proper skills are successful.