Social media influencers have become the new celebrities, shaping consumer behaviour and driving trends across various industries. Recognising this, Amazon, the e-commerce giant, introduced its Amazon Influencer Program, offering influencers a unique platform to monetise their influence and connect with their audience in a more meaningful way.
This article discusses the Amazon Influencer Program, how it works, how to get approved and various other things you need to know.
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What is the Amazon Influencer Program?
The Amazon Influencer Program is an extension of Amazon’s Associates program, allowing individuals with eligible websites to promote products and receive commissions for driving sales to Amazon. Depending on the product category, commission rates typically range from 1% to 10% per sale. Unlike the standard Associates program, participation in the Influencer Program requires participants to meet specific criteria established by Amazon and gain approval before they can start promoting products.
How does the Amazon Influencer Program work?
As an Amazon Influencer, you’ll design a personalised page on Amazon where you can share shoppable photos, videos, and even livestreams. You can also share your storefront URL or unique affiliate links on your social media platforms to direct your followers to the products you recommend. When someone clicks your link and makes a qualifying purchase, you earn a commission.
The Amazon Influencer Program offers advantages not only to the influencers but also to the shoppers. By accessing the program, shoppers can easily find products recommended by their favourite influencers, thus ensuring the quality of the items they purchase. This is possible due to the high level of trust that the influencer has established over time.
How many followers do you need?
To join the Amazon Influencer Program, you generally require a significant and engaged audience on social media platforms such as YouTube, Instagram, X, or Facebook. While the specific follower count required may vary, having at least 1,000 followers can improve your chances of acceptance. Naturally, a larger following and positive engagement metrics can accelerate the approval process.
It’s essential to ensure that your content complies with Amazon’s guidelines and policies. Your social media posts should showcase your talent for producing genuine, captivating, and informative content that connects with your audience.
It’s important to note that just reaching the suggested follower count doesn’t guarantee eligibility for the Amazon Influencer Program. You must demonstrate to Amazon that you can produce high-quality content that drives sales.
How to get approved?
Amazon will review your social media profiles to assess whether you’re a suitable candidate for the program. To gain approval for the Amazon Influencer Program, you should fulfil the following requirements:
- Social media platform: When applying, Amazon will prompt you to showcase your most influential public social media account. Currently, the options include Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, and Facebook.
- Number of followers: Although Amazon doesn’t specify a minimum follower requirement for influencers, your follower count will be considered. Don’t fret—while having a substantial following might enhance your chances, it’s not mandatory.
- Engagement: Quality engagement with your audience holds more weight than sheer follower numbers. Amazon evaluates factors such as post frequency, consistency, and how actively your followers interact with your content. These metrics truly reflect your eligibility.
How much do Amazon influencers get paid?
While the exact earnings vary, some Amazon Influencers have reported monthly incomes of up to $5,000. The amount an influencer earns depends on several factors, including the products they promote, the size and engagement of their audience, and the commission rates they receive from Amazon, which can differ based on the product category.
Although influencers with larger followings generally earn more, smaller influencers can still thrive in the program. To maximise commissions, they should focus on products that align with their brand and implement effective marketing strategies.
How to apply for the Amazon Influencer Program?
If you’ve built a dedicated and active audience on social media, it’s a great opportunity to consider applying for the Amazon Influencer Program and begin earning income by recommending products. The influencer market is expanding rapidly: 12% of third-party Amazon sellers are engaging influencers to endorse their products, and more than a third (41%) intend to expand their business through social media, influencer marketing, and other marketing efforts outside of Amazon. Follow the steps below to apply for the program:
- Step 1: Open the Amazon Influencer Program homepage and click the Sign up button.
- Step 2: If you have a current Amazon customer account or Amazon Associates account, you can apply through that login. If not, click the Create new account button.
- Step 3: You will need to connect one of your social media accounts to your application so Amazon can determine your eligibility. You can choose to connect to Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, or Facebook.
- Step 4: Complete your profile, enter your other social media account links and click on the Continue button.
- Step 5: On the next page, enter your Storefront name and tagline.
- Step 6: Now, enter your account information. Once done, click on the Save and Finish button and you’ll be brought to your Amazon Associates dashboard.
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