Some characteristics of affiliate marketing are:
- Affiliate marketing is a performance-based marketing model so advertisers pay affiliates only after predefined actions are completed.
- It relies on tracking links so conversions are assigned to the correct affiliate.
- It involves third-party publishers so products are promoted beyond the advertiser’s own channels.
- It follows predefined commission rules so payouts are calculated consistently for completed actions.
- It operates through digital platforms so reporting and payment processes are centrally managed.
- It allows independent participation so affiliates choose their own promotion methods.