Affiliates: Set amount or commission?

[OKIHost]

How do you think is the best way to offer affiliate programs? Do you think it would be better to off $x.xx for each shared or reseller plan they refer or to offer a commission say 20% per month or a one time deal for 100% of the first month say??

[allan]

As someone who has affiliates with a couple of hosting companies, I prefer a one-time payment based on the amount of the account opened.

[Chicken]

As someone who does not have affiliates with any hosting companies (just so you know), I'd prefer 20% monthly.

[interactive]

I have a few affiliates I would prefer either like just a $10 up front, and then nothing else. Or say 50% the first month then around 10-20% next months. Just me though.

[MMiz]

I have reviewed many hosts looking for an attractive affiliate problem with a good reputation. I ended up setting on one that paid 20% commission, went to sign up, and got a 404 error. That was the end of that.

[interactive]

LOL, I think I know what host your talking about, had the same problem ;-)

[Debbie]

If I were signing up as an affiliate I would prefer to get a percentage per month. Recurring income is a good thing. :D

[JeremyV]

I think it would depend on how the account was sold. If the affiliate sold a monthly account that goes for 12.95/month, then they would get a % of that each month. But if the affiliate had someone sign up with the same account and pay yearly, they would get a % of the total sale up front. I think as far as book keeping and such goes, that is the only real easy way to do it. I wouldn't want to be constantly figuring out who gets a higher % this month, and then each month after get a different %... too much work :)

[markcw]

I have signed up for several CJ.com affilates programs and individual host affiliates.

90% pay a one time fee since the host has an easier accounting process.

I would rather have the money now than worry about you paying me every month. If someone cancels after 4 or 5 months, the affiliate loses and not the host.

So if you want me to sell your services, pay me now.

[firm1]

We pay 50% a month residual and have been for 5 years.
Our affiliates, we owe much of our success to.

[Karen]

A one time payment would be my desire. If I am sending someone to a hosting company (hypothetically speaking of course) then I would want to be paid upfront for the referral.

Karen

[net-trend]

And a sorta old thread relives!! :)

And back to the topic, if I were to sign up for an affiliate program, I'd rather get a set amount.