Disqus - Latest Comments for Frostie

Re: Personality Marketing & Branding Starts With The Right Image

Frostie — Mon, 12 Feb 2007 06:07:57 -0000

Fantastic! I've been looking for recommended caricature services after seeing these little pics pop up on a number of blogs. Luckily Fraser Edwards point me in the direction of this post, and now I'm determined to become iconized for my blog too. :)

Re: You Want Short-Term Traffic, Or Long-Term Trust & Respect For Your Blog?

Frostie — Mon, 19 Mar 2007 15:47:30 -0000

Youch! There should be a sign on a few posts saying "Controversy Ahead" :o)

In all fairness, and from a complete out-siders viewpoint, I can see where Mark is coming from and the reason he questions the latest suggestive banners. However I have read Marks blog a number of times, along with yours Jim, and have found 90% of the posts I find informative and useful. There are a number of blog entries on every blog I have read, where I disagree with the author, or sometimes even question the reasoning behind the post, but I value your thoughts and experience in the industry and such continue reading, simply omitting the one, in my mind, rogue post.

Not wanting to get involved in the 'disagreement', one thing that worries me is that does a single controversial post, which people may or may not agree with, warrant a complete blog becoming labeled as a fake way of obtaining traffic? If so, then god help me ;o)

I am usually all for these Diggs and Bumpzees etc, but far too often I have found, and experienced, that these can be just as controversial themselves. I.E. bump me and I'll bump you. More of a â€˜who you knowâ€™ and not necessarily â€˜what you knowâ€™.

Obviously, from looking at my blog, I can safely say that there is no dodgy bumping going on.... so to speak, and I know no-one ;o)

Re: Hidden Affiliate Links update version 0.2

Frostie — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 07:49:02 -0000

Having the same problem as a few others. Installed fine, but when I complete the fields, nothing happens when clicking on the ADD HIDDEN LINK button.

I'm using IE7 and Wordpress is 2.2.1

Any ideas?

Re: Hidden Affiliate Links update version 0.2

Frostie — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 11:10:03 -0000

I'm not using the keyword facility, just simply replacing affiliate links but I am having a bit of a problem.

When I add a link such as go/link123 it doesn't take immediate effect and causes my blog to send users to a 404 page for a good couple of hours. Any idea why this is?

Re: Hidden Affiliate Links update version 0.2

Frostie — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 11:14:03 -0000

Don't use any caching as far as I am aware, however I have managed to find a solution. If I create a link, save it then go edit and update it works. Bit of a pain as it creates double work for me, but get there in the end.

I have just come across another issue however;
I create a link and call it "go/link3" this works fine. However later on I have created another link and called it "go/link30". When I then use "go/link30" in a post for some reason it sends people to the URL listed in "go/link3" and NOT "go/link30".

I've tried this on different numbers and find "go/link20" doesn't go to the required link, but sends people to "go/link2".

Is this a known issue?

Re: Charity Blog Sponsorship

Frostie — Fri, 16 Feb 2007 12:06:39 -0000

Its ok, you would have been hosting the image anyway ;)

Yes image and text links are ALL welcome, just let me know the details and I'll throw it up there :)

Re: Picking a domain name

Frostie — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 06:24:10 -0000

Hey Mark
Took a look at your post, and you have quite a list there, some which include the good old co.uk suffix. Thanks for that!

Re: Blogging Necessities

Frostie — Thu, 22 Mar 2007 09:38:10 -0000

Geoff
The base address of this blog should give you a starting point;
http://www.webaffiliate.co.uk

Also, if you can, signup to attend one of the free seminars taking place in April/May this year;
http://www.affiliateprogramadvice.com/blog/2007...

Finally, pop along to the A4U Forum and ask for advice until your heart's content, and again, if possible, try to make the A4U events so you can meet other affiliates, merchants and networks;
http://www.a4uforums.co.uk
http://www.a4uevents.co.uk

Re: Blogging Necessities

Frostie — Thu, 22 Mar 2007 09:39:22 -0000

Rich
Yeah you are correct, infact I missed out the whole Side Widgets plugin. When I get a min, I will update this post and added it. Glad you like some of the ones I recommend and plan to implement them.

Let me know how it goes.

Re: Toys R Us Need Educating

Frostie — Thu, 17 May 2007 10:08:19 -0000

Kerry I must admit when I had the initial discussion, I did have to double check with what I was being told. It really is unbelievable!

You're mention of account management is interesting. I have often said to a few networks and consultancies in the business that I truely believe there is room for a new position or role. Basically a direct go between for merchants and affiliates.

Some may argue that this is the role of an account manager, but I see it failing all too often for one reason or another, not necessarily due to the person in the role, maybe its more to do with work loads etc. At the recent Buy.at Speakeasy event, the emphasis was on COMMUNICATION between all parties. It is something that I find to have declined quite recently.

Luckily I am in direct contact with a small number of merchants, however I appreciate this isn't alway possible. I really do think that more can be done if networks employed an affiliate, possibly on consultancy basis to liaise and explain from an affiliates POV problems or issues with a particular merchant. Sadly I think Merchants listen too much to networks, many of which don't have a true understanding or grasp of what or where affiliates are coming from.

Its also interesting to hear from a Merchant that they too think there is room for improvement when it comes to Account management. Who knows what the future holds? ;)

Re: Affiliate Summit or stay at home?

Frostie — Thu, 17 May 2007 13:33:20 -0000

Hi Shawn

Thanks for that. I'd just like to make clear, I was not implying that if I did receive a press pass, it would be expected of me to produce a glowing report. I appreciate that honesty etc is always the best policy, and sometimes constructed criticism is at times, the most welcome advice you can receive. What I meant (and have updated the post now) is that I don't know if it would actually have an influence on me and my report, not as a result from any pressure from you guys - I know that would never be your intention. You simply let the conferences speak for themselves and as such have let them growÂ into this international event that they are now.

I am tempted, even if just to meet Jim and others. I will ponder a bit more and will submit my application, if I decided to opt for it, this weekend.

Cheers.

Re: http://www.webaffiliate.co.uk/blog/networks/did-you-drop-your-shopping-basket.html

Frostie — Mon, 21 May 2007 17:42:40 -0000

Kevin

Cheers for the comments showing a networks point of view on this issue.

I fully understand and agree with your comments relating to the inability of merchants websites. I suspect 99.9% of times, merchants are setup and running before approaching a network and as such may not have included that in their original design spec. A bit of an oversight on their part, or lack of understanding of ecommerce maybe. Hopefully merchants will introduce this functionality to their website in future upgrades, releases or redisgns, not only for use by affiliates but general taregtting as detailed in the NMA article.

As for devaluing a brand... if I read it correctly, this isn't necessarily your POV, but what merchants are telling networks. However, if you take a quick snapshot of companies (in an out of the affiliate industry) that offer discount and promotional codes, it becomes apparent that this is no longer an excuse.

PC World, Tesco, Virgin, HMV, La Senza, Marks & Spencers, Littlewoods... these are just a few that have offered discounts to new or existing users in the past, and some continue to do so. Never have these online specials devalued any of the above brands and neither does it devalue smaller companies such as Prezzybox, Love Honey, BeCheeky.

If Affiliate Window are presented with the argument of discount codes devaluing a brand, do you guys/girls provide examples of large well known establishments to run such deals and explain how successful they are?

I appreciate that Affiliate Window are extremely helpful in supplying regular email updates regarding discount codes, as well as highlighting these from the Affiliates homepage once logged in.

Chris

Re: Toys R Us Need Educating

Frostie — Tue, 29 May 2007 07:09:22 -0000

Mark

Thanks for your reply. Just a couple of points...
1 - I and other affiliate know how the affiliate business model operates and as such we understand where we lose out, a network also loses out on revenue.

2 - I appreciate that overtime TrU has grown, however I would suspect that a lot of this is due to many affiliates PPC'ing their websites, unaware of the T&C;'s. Many people expect not to be able to PPC direct to merchants, or on merchants names/brands, but to not be allowed to PPC your own website on terms such as CHRISTMAS TOYS this is NOT industry standard. Was this communicated to TrU or was it not challenged?

I know of many affiliates who are pushing TrU yet are unaware of these T&C;'s, and if you were to take all these affiliates out of the equation,Â the program will most probably fall flat on its face!

3 - I appreciate how ALL networks work, and do their best for affiliates and merchants where possible and wouldn't let 1 program change my perception as you can see from my stats this month. However I do sometimes feel that AW shoot themselves in the foot at times. A prime example of this was the response to ASOS coming back into the affiliate market following their NMA article. Many big affiliates said they hoped ALL networks would stick together and tell ASOS to sling their hook. AW response was that us affiliate should see this as an opportunity to 'educate' ASOS!

As I say, I would be very interested in #2 of my comments, and would be only too happy to be proven wrong.

Re: Toys R Us Need Educating

Frostie — Tue, 29 May 2007 09:31:20 -0000

Indeed Mark, time will tell. I and other affiliates sincerely hope you guy's are successful in making TrU relax their current PPC policy.

Re: You Can’t PPC Seasons

Frostie — Wed, 30 May 2007 18:27:21 -0000

Too funny!

Re: http://www.webaffiliate.co.uk/blog/networks/did-you-drop-your-shopping-basket.html

Frostie — Thu, 31 May 2007 06:30:19 -0000

Mark, don't shoot the messenger, I am only quoting from an article published in NMA that was carried out by a research company ;)

I agree that people are getting more savvy when it comes to Discount Codes, however I disagree with the line of thought that if someone is looking for COMPANY-A DISCOUNT, then gives a fairly strong indication of a purchase from COMPANY-A. It only give a strong indication that COMPANY-A stocks or is likely to stock the product they customer after.

Personally, if I wanted to buy a Karcher Jet Washer, I would not automatically think ARGOS catalogue and if I found no discounts, I would not continue to purchase the product from them. I would continue my search for a CURRYS discount, then LITTLEWOODS discount etc. The end customer is not longer bothered which merchant they use, as loyalty is going out of the window. What an end user wants is the best deal and to save some money and this is what merchants need to realise. Times are changing.

As for whether affiliates should or shouldn't be listing websites that have no valid discount codes, this was discussed on the forums (http://www.affiliates4u.com/forums/showthread.p...). Some may see this as unethical, however if a visitor of mine clicks on an TESCO link that has no discount and continues to purchase anyway, then yes I should get the commission as I attarcted the customer.

Another way of looking at this, moving away from the Discount Scenario is Cash Back Sites. Is this really any different? Surely without Cash Back Sites the visitor would have gone to TESCO.com and made a purchase anyway. Again, the merchant would have obtained a sale anyway, yet the visitor chose to go via a specific link in order to get Cash Back, not a great deal different to a discount, and therefore the merchant has had to pay commission on a sale that may have come directly.

Re: You Can’t PPC Seasons

Frostie — Thu, 31 May 2007 06:37:31 -0000

Andrew I totally agree.

Some merchants do actually provide you with a complete list of words that they don't want you bidding on. Currys on Affiliate Window is a prime example and have about 10 words in their exclusion list. They also sas that certain words are not used in phrase/broad match too.

i.e. - you are not allowed to bid on CURRYS, but it is also requested that your advert doesn't appear for CURRYS DISCOUNT CODES.

Although this isn't originally stipulated in the T&C;'s AWin are an approachable bunch of people who bring it to your attention and ask/assist you in reaching the agreeable level of PPC. This is something I am all for - simple open non-biaised communication.

Sadly I think most networks, agencies and merchants automatically presume you are brand bidding when in actual fact, you're not.

Re: You Can’t PPC Seasons

Frostie — Wed, 04 Jul 2007 10:56:51 -0000

The last thing I heard from them was;
"Take on board your suggestion but I think we might have another solution which works better for all concerned. We will communicate this to you shortly."

Since then, not a dickie bird!

It's crazy the way merchants, agencies and networks just jump to conclusions. I notice you have been TOLD;
"...which you are bidding for on MSN."
They aren't asking if you are, they are telling you!

Sadly it's the same old crap time and time again. I've vowed to myself not to use one network for any new programs until they get someone with some sort of skills inhouse. Maybe they will get a super duper merchant, but in my eyes, it's simply not worth the agro that goes with it. I'd rather work with a professional outfit who know what they're doing, or atleast ASK rather than jump the gun. This type of working relationship is not one I want.

Did you/will you charge them for your consultancy and time taken to train their staff?

Re: WARNING: Upgrade Wordpress Now!!!

Frostie — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 20:12:16 -0000

Ray were you using this utility? I've successfuly upgrade all my blogging sites now using this and not had a single problem.

Manually upgrading, especially tables, is nerve wracking, but when it comes to security flaws, it's something I want to keep at bay. Failure to upgrade could easily result in a lost site too.

The difference with this utility is that it backs up all files AND tables before it does anything else. Something I never used to do when manually upgrading.

Re: The Perfect Affiliate Network

Frostie — Sun, 30 Sep 2007 20:12:22 -0000

Clarke
Look forward to your post. Appreciate that this is a wish list and there is no way every wish will be fulfilled, even if they were all possible.

Nick
I don't like shouting so please, Caps Lock off :)

This post was what a perfect network, in my eyes, would be. Its quite obvious to me, and many others who have read it, that this level will never be achieved, however it shouldn't stop networks from striving towards it. This thread isn't a 'too big for your boots post' as you mention, it is merely a personal view, of what I would have implemented if I had setup a network with unlimited cash and unlimited technological know-how.

I would love to know which of the 'many points' I have mentioned show the 'classic boots' syndrome too. Maybe you could expand?

OK, just to correct a few points;
- I don't get paid by check, its all BACS over here (oh, and it's a Cheque too!)
- 72 hours was merely a figure picked out of thin air. What I think needs to addressed are those merchants that will check applications pending every couple of weeks at most.
- I am not dictating any terms to any merchants and I am not sure why you have asked me, who I think pays for the program. Who do you think? Personally, it's the sales and leads so in the long run, the end customer pays for the program.

Oh, and as for the Eurovision every year, I think its because we are part of Europe... the clue is in the name! ;)

Re: The Perfect Affiliate Network

Frostie — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 06:22:57 -0000

Nick

Thanks for the clarity. I agree with almost everything you say, especially the fact that we are a long long way from the perfect network, however, it is something over the coming years we may one day achieve.

Whenever I have meetings with networks, they are always receptive to my suggestions on how they can improve their service to me, as an affiliate. Nowadays the level of service from one network to the other differs and its easy enough for me to switch my links, for the same program in many cases, to another network.

Why should I use Network#1 for MerchantA who pays monthly, is late chasing invoices, when I could use Network#2 for the same Merchant, who pays twice monthly? This is available to me as an affiliates, and its something that some networks need to realise and look at offering the same if not better service.

I agree that affiliates count for a small proportion of sales (when looking at well established companies such as Tesco), however many merchants see us as an ever growing channel as onlines sales continue to increase. Other merchants see us as a major part of their revenue stream (such as ASOS) and without the affiliate channel would not be where they are now.

This post wasn't meant to be a 'networks take note and change' type of thread. After years of being in the industry and seeing how its evolved, it was a case of how I would introduce a new network having had lots of experience and exposure. Hindsight... wonderful thing...

Eurovision - without it, lots of online gambling sites would miss out on some substantial income.... therefore its a good thing ;o)

Re: WARNING: Upgrade Wordpress Now!!!

Frostie — Thu, 04 Oct 2007 14:55:20 -0000

BRIAN
Firstly this plugin isn't something I wrote, its just one that I recommend. I have however googled your error, and it appears that the error is down to how a procedure is being called in certain themers or plugins;
http://wordpress.org/support/topic/135658

Have you tried switching to another theme, just to see if the error still persists?

DEVID
I've just taken a look at your blog (url link in your name), and it appears fine to me?

Re: A Bloggin Experiment

Frostie — Tue, 20 Nov 2007 10:41:45 -0000

Indeed. Infact I am kind of running a few experiments all at once... all nothing....

The new site, as I say, will be purely SEO and not a penny spent on link building, ppc, advertising... absolutely nothing. The existing site will continue to hammer PPC but I am also trying, for the first time, some offline advertising to see how this goes. Should be a an interesting few weeks ahead.

The Wordpress pluggins really do help, and there are a few manual adjustments that can also be made, to further help with titles and such like.

Keep us posted on how your Wordpress site goes over the next 6 weeks or so.

Re: Do Networks Give A Flying F…

Frostie — Wed, 21 Nov 2007 11:55:15 -0000

Hi Hero

Sadly this post was not intended to name and shame those networks that I personally don't think give a flying f... However by not naming, I can see that it may have implicated those networks that are working on this issue.

Therefore in my own experience and from what I have seen in relation to this constant ongoing battle, Webgains, POR and DGM are taking a stance. This has been proved by communications with these networks and at the chat that was had to address this issue at the A4U Expo.

I appreciate that all networks may come along with "so are we" style comments, however I can only comment on what I personally have seen to date.

Also, I am NOT suggesting network should drop affiliates that break the rules, I am suggesting that a "3 slap and out" rule be introduced and that the networks should become a little bit more strict in applying these rules.

Re: A Bloggin Experiment

Frostie — Wed, 21 Nov 2007 12:32:47 -0000

Andy

I noticed that your website is also a wordpress blog so you should have any problem with attarcting visitors. As for sales then a number of factors creep into play such as prices, seasonal changes etc etc.

If you aren't getting many visitors then checkout additional ways of improving your SEO such as making use of a pluggin called "All in One SEO Plugin".

Also, when you write posts (more regular the better) who do you ping to tell them your website is up to date? Might be worth looking at James Littles post;
http://www.3wdl.co.uk/2007/01/22/wordpress-seo-...

Another addition I would make would be to create a sitemap.xml that can then be used by search engines to help spider your site.

HTH

Re: A Bloggin Experiment

Frostie — Wed, 21 Nov 2007 12:33:48 -0000

Guadagnare

All discount codes are obtained from Affiliate Networks, Agencies or the Merchants directly. Not to sure about the Italian market but suspect there are a few Affiliate Networks out there that could help you.

Re: Christmas has arrvied

Frostie — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 08:35:25 -0000

Neil

Yes your last comment was removed from my blog as it, like this, had no relation whatsoever with the post that you were commenting on.

I am aware you have contacted me and you are aware that I have been away on holiday, hence the lack of response.

Just to make clear, my advert does appear on certain mispells, however I would like to point out that I am no in way related or affiliated with Interflora whatsoever, so therefore I am not breaking any terms and conditions.

I'm sure you'll appreciate that right now my efforts are being concentrated on websites that generate sales for merchants who have chosen to work with me.

I agreed that I would negatively list mispells of Interflora, and said that I would be doing this as a favour as I am not required to do so in anyway, as there is no relation between myself and Interflora. As previously mentioned, I will do this, as a favour, however right now it is not a priority.

Re: Merchants Gizmos Work!

Frostie — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 08:37:36 -0000

I've used two, and due to the lack of tracking I implement, I can't really say which one is generating the sales.

Take a look at www.xmaselves.co.uk and you will see on the left side, a dynamic product banner, but also on the homepage is a GIFT FINDER. I suspect it is the latter that is generating the sales.

By the way, the site looks pants unless viewed in IE7 - something to get sorted for Christmas 2008 ;)

Re: Christmas has arrvied

Frostie — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 19:47:59 -0000

Lee - Neil did try to contact me via email, however as mentioned I was away on holiday and therefore wasn't picking up all my emails. I presume this is why he has opted for comments on my blog which I personally disagree with.

Neil - I appreciate your respectful approach however when I am on holiday then a more timely approach is out of the question, especially as I am not an affiliate of Interflora. I am sure if your employer, like mine, asked you to produce plans whilst on vacation, you would flip... I know I would! Also, please bear in mind that I do work fulltime outside of the AM industry. I also hope that by simply having me agree to do this in the first position, shows positive action on my behalf as some affiliates would point blank refuse!

Re: Problems sleeping at night?

Frostie — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 08:50:55 -0000

Indeed it does :S

Mind you, with Kirsty off to Oz I guess I can just arrange a house swap for a few weeks. I will have a word with Matt and see if we can arrange for the Expo to take place at my gaff. It maybe a little cramped tho :D

Re: A New Year, A New Design

Frostie — Mon, 21 Jan 2008 06:00:06 -0000

Do you mean to say that you're not interested in fruit recipes? Sure you are after the weekend of food programmes we have just had to endure?

As I mentioned "are still a few bits and pieces to sort out, a little nip here and tuck there" - and the juicy orange bits fall under this category you'll be glad to know ;)

Re: A Bloggin Experiment

Frostie — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 13:08:46 -0000

Is this what you are after;
http://www.webaffiliate.co.uk/blog/seo/blogging...

It was compiled way back in March and since then a lot has changed. You're question has prompted me to update so this weekend I will release a new one.

Re: Merchant Traffic Light System – Good vs Bad

Frostie — Wed, 20 Feb 2008 10:02:18 -0000

Sadly OMG are not alone. There are many networks who withold payments until payments have been received from the merchant. TradeDoubler is another example.

It can be frustrating when the merchant pays late, especially when you are talking about a couple of £100. TradeDoubler do occasionally run additional payments from my experience in the past.

Then there are other networks who pay you no matter what. Recent examples has shown Webgains paying even when a company has gone bust!

Re: Will 2008 be DGM’s year?

Frostie — Wed, 20 Feb 2008 10:57:06 -0000

Lee
I agree. When you look at it as a whole, DGM have the staff, the knowledge, the history, the technical knowhow and the willingness. Now the future is in their own hands with maybe less restraints, I think we will see them develop into a major player once again.

Ray
I am not saying you have to contact DGM, I am saying that I am finding them more proactive? The voucher code issue is still very much in its infancy stage at the moment, literally a talk here and there, but it is on their radar. I don't think there is any need to contact them as they already plan to contact a lot of people similar to discuss all the options available, very similar to Webgains last year.

Re: Next – Do They Care About The Affiliate Marketing Industry?

Frostie — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 11:31:05 -0000

I think you may have mis-read Awins response. On the forum thread you mention, Adam says;
<ul>"Cookies will not be honoured after the 29th."</ul>

This is backed up by an email that AWin have sent out;
<ul>"Note - Next will not be paying commission on sales occurring within the 7 day cookie period from this date."</ul>

Re: Next Affiliate Programme Is A Disgrace To This Industry

Frostie — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 11:59:04 -0000

Gadget
- Sorry one swear word crept in there.... not bad considering... ;)

Matthew
- The email came from Buy.At however I would like to point out that AFAIK it is NOT their decision. No idea if it was made at merchant or agency level, but in the same email Buy.At commented;
"I hope you appreciate this bears no reflection on our attitude as a network to working with you in general."
Steve
- Yeah it is pretty much a lessons of what not to do!

Re: Next Affiliate Programme Is A Disgrace To This Industry

Frostie — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 15:49:24 -0000

"To now take their bat home and say if you do not like it when we treat you like this then we will stop you from promoting us is an unbelievable way for a multi national company to behave."

It could also be a blessing in disguise. I am hoping that other merchants will see Next as how NOT to run an affiliate programme, and will stop other merchants heading down the same route.

As far as I am concerned, they can stick their bat where the sun don't shine :D

Re: Next Affiliate Programme Is A Disgrace To This Industry

Frostie — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 19:51:23 -0000

Hero

I think you have got the wrong end of the stick. I wasn't planning on pushing the Next programme, however the saying "Money for old rope" should explain precisely why I applied.

I don't think you can leave aside the "had some nicely SEO-ed pages up and would be a shame to let them go" comment and then go on to ask me why I would want to promote them. The fact that I have pages that generate sales without any need to push the programme, is the whole reason behind me applying for the programme on the new networks. By leaving that comment out, there would be no argument.

I think this post also serves as a catalog of errors made by Next, and demonstrates as someone put it in the A4U Forum, bullying tactics. The fact that they haven't honoured the 7 day cookie period via Awin referrals, in my opinion, amounts to gaining sales without honouring their commitment to pay affiliates.

It's about time that merchants like this, who abuse the industry, are shown the door by networks no matter how big the brand name is. Just by looking at the comments and the backings this post has recived, both numbers (36) and names and the representation across agency, network, affiliate and merchants, of all hierarchical levels, shows that this is a general feeling of those in the industry.

The comments and backings haven't come from new, thin, fresh faced affiliates obilivious to the business, so I think that says a lot in itself.

Re: Next Affiliate Programme Is A Disgrace To This Industry

Frostie — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 05:03:23 -0000

Hero
"i’m not advocating how Next have been bahaving"
I'm extremely glad you've made that point as I did start to wonder where your argument was coming from. You can't ask why I chose to apply for a programme, when at the same time, you want to set aside my initial reason for applying :?

Affiliates are and will continue to be a different breed. I made my decision not to promote them but to use them. There is a HUGE difference here. Anyway, I dont want this thread to become specific to the why's and where's, I as an individual made my decision and again will sum it up in "Money for old rope".

Kirsty
"How did these jokers ever win the best new affiliate programme of the year?"
Yeah is a bit crazy, but hindsight is great isn't it! As Matt has said, they were voted when they were new to the industry by affiliates, and when commission levels were acceptable. Since then there has been nothing but problems and if the reward was to be revoked I think it wouldn't put A4U in good light in the future. One thing is for sure, they wont be winning any more awards in a hurry :)

Re: Next Affiliate Programme Is A Disgrace To This Industry

Frostie — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 16:47:29 -0000

Hero
I believe the full proverb is;
"Do it once, you’re a fool - do it twice, you an affiliate" ;)
Luckily Next stopped me from making the same mistake again so maybe I actually owe them my thanks :D

Adam
That clip is classic. I'm on a mission now to find more Bush'isms :)

Re: Next Affiliate Programme Is A Disgrace To This Industry

Frostie — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 17:46:19 -0000

Jess
"My tact would be a gentle nudge to the powers that be at Next to seek advice from their networks that they are partnered with."

I'm still not convinced its the networks job to be honest. I would have thought that this is the role of the agency? Surely they are there to advise or manage a programme? If not then, what exactly is the role of an agency?

As I said on the forum, I'm not convinced shooting the messenger (Buy.at in this instance) is correct.

Re: Meet The REAL Affiliates (Limited Edition) – Kirsty McCubbin

Frostie — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 07:14:40 -0000

Kirsty come on now... I know for a fact you won last years Haggis Hunt.

Can't wait for the young, buff, female Swedish backpackers, however I think it would be best if Duncan showed me ;)

Re: Next – Do They Care About The Affiliate Marketing Industry?

Frostie — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 11:30:10 -0000

Wow how very confusing.

Why on earth would anyone do a job that they are ashamed of?

If you took time to read the whole article, and took in what I've said, you will notice that I am not complaining, and never have questioned as to Next winning the award. At the time, they deserved to!

You will also see that many affiliates (big ones) have decided to drop Next as a merchant. It has NOTHING to do with making money or making it work Paul. It has more to do with ethics and morals. If you have none, then promote to your hearts content :)

Re: Next Affiliate Programme Is A Disgrace To This Industry

Frostie — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 11:35:54 -0000

Hi Chris

With a comment this long, I agree, it does appear some people have too much time on their hands! I guess what it does show, is passion for the industry. If you think this is wrong, then maybe it's not the right one for you?

I am not sure where you are hearing the the programme is doing great nor what great building has been done... oh how ignorance is bliss!

This blog post received over 100 backs on the A4U forums, by agencies, fellow affiliates, merchants and networks. Seriously this should be taken very seriously. Also, if you take the time to follow the forums, you will soon realise its a slightly bigger issue than a single affiliate with a gripe.

As for paper forms for trails - again I am confused here. You are obviously involved in the industry Chris, so you should know its not need for "paper trails. Simple". If it is, then maybe explain as to why I don't need to complete forms for 1000 other merchants?

I simply have the balls to stand up and say what I see, and as it transpires, others feel.

In response to "If we continue to throw stones, accuse them of stuff, and generally bicker on the net - who are we making a fool of?" I ask you;
If we roll over and accept this as a way a programme should be run, who are we making a fool of?

Thanks for your input :D

Re: Check For Nasty Footers In Wordpress Themes

Frostie — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 12:24:11 -0000

Yeah I agree about the GPL/Open Source issue. My main gripe about encoding is not knowing what has actually been encoded.

I must admit, I don't feel bad by decoding, adding my own links yet leaving in place the designers link to his homepage. As you say, its only fair.

Re: Next Affiliate Programme Is A Disgrace To This Industry

Frostie — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 15:18:55 -0000

Col

Bad news about the Hatton fight, but already there is talk about (if he wins) his next fight being in New York! So get saving.

I appreciate you coming along and clearing this up from an ROEye perspective and have edited the comment in question. Apologies for this.

Re: http://www.webaffiliate.co.uk/blog/networks/dgm/frostie-is-back-to-his-affiliate-winning-ways.html

Frostie — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 15:20:26 -0000

No problem!

Just to make sure, I have made the statement BOLD just in case any should miss it ;)

Re: http://www.webaffiliate.co.uk/blog/networks/dgm/frostie-is-back-to-his-affiliate-winning-ways.html

Frostie — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 07:10:02 -0000

As far as I recall, I've never lived in Huddersfield and don't have a brother called Stuart... unless my parents have kept a secret from me :|

Re: http://www.webaffiliate.co.uk/blog/networks/dgm/frostie-is-back-to-his-affiliate-winning-ways.html

Frostie — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 09:28:27 -0000

Thats right! I was there strutting my stuff while Big Gay Kev was mincing to the YMCA ;)

Re: Calling All Merchants – Speak To Your Network

Frostie — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 05:10:49 -0000

Cheers Ray! I'm quite hopeful based on the feedback from some of the networks so far, but time will tell.

It turns out that, although initially aimed at getting exclusive discounts for my websites, the presentation I've thrown together may also help networks/agencies explain to merchants the benefit of introducing a generic code.

Obviously I would prefer exclusives codes and offers, but the more generic codes out there, the more we can all benefit.... Good Karma ;)

Re: Calling All Merchants – Speak To Your Network

Frostie — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 06:57:14 -0000

I'm glad that you've all found the presentation useful. I've sent copies to those people that have requested it via comments or my contact form... HOWEVER, I think I may have accidentally deleted 2 emails asking for copies.

If you asked, and haven't yet received, or would like a copy, please get in touch and I will forward to you today.

Cheers

Re: Whats The Idea Behind This?

Frostie — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 09:21:55 -0000

Many thanks all.

As I say, as they are not scraping mysite I am not to concerned. I've done as Rich has suggested and used a Javascript snippet to breakout from the framed page.

For info - the code I used was from here;
http://javascript.internet.com/page-details/bre...

Re: Bring me Sunshine Monkey

Frostie — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 05:22:07 -0000

Kirsty

Yes its true. Sadly I did over sleep and miss my flight... a repeat of what happened a few years ago in Glasgow. I blame the sambuca and the lack of sleep the night before due to mopping duties :(

As for re-motivating yourself, do a house swap with me for a month ;)

Re: Bring me Sunshine Monkey

Frostie — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:43:28 -0000

Hi Jonathan

I currently use Meir Hosting. They have had their problems in the past with availability, however the response from the support I can't fault.

Despite a few hickups I've stuck with them for a few years now, and have a reseller account. I will shortly be moving to a dedicated server, purely for resilience reasons.

I am surprised that you would have to upgrade your hosting package in order to use a simple tool like Wordpress. Who is your host at the moment? Have you tried installing wordpress manually, or failing that, in your control panel do you have an option for Fantastico?

Re: Calling All Merchants – Speak To Your Network

Frostie — Wed, 14 May 2008 13:50:50 -0000

Hi Hannah

I'm surprised and disappointed that the network or account manager hasn't forwarded it on to you. I did ask them to send it on to as many as possible, after putting a great deal of time and effort into it.

Anyway I've emailed the presentation to you, and hope that like other networks, agencies and merchants, you too find this useful, and look forward to sorting something out with you in the near future.

Chris

Re: Bugger All To Do With Affiliate Marketing

Frostie — Tue, 20 May 2008 05:54:00 -0000

Haha...
Between 5k and 8k there were 2 water stations and also a run through shower. This on top of a gradual but constant incline, was the reason for a dip in speed. The beer and burger afterwards was LUSH and well worth it.

The next one I'm doing is September... anyone fancy joining me? Shane??
Details here

Re: Was It A Bank Holiday Or Something?

Frostie — Tue, 27 May 2008 11:44:50 -0000

Great timing where my point has been proved...

I and other affiliates have just received this email from Affiliate Window regarding the Wickes programme and a special deal taking place over the bank holiday weekend;

And another offer!
For the bank holiday weekend only Wickes are offering a great Avalon bathroom suite for just £499! The offer includes Avalon bath and bath front panel, Avalon toilet pan and cistern, Avalon toilet seat, Avalon basin and pedestal, Avalon mono basin mixer and bath taps. Offer ends Monday 26th May.

So the email was received today, Tuesday 27th May, however the offer ended yesterday... Hang on, let me jump in my Delorian and head back to when I created my newsletter so I can feature this merchant!

It does make you wonder where the hold up was, the cause of it, and why the email was released at all by AWin considering the date had passed and promo had ended :(

Re: Calling All Merchants – Speak To Your Network

Frostie — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 17:14:04 -0000

Hi Callum

I've sent you an email with the link. Hope you find it useful.

Re: Calling All Merchants – Speak To Your Network

Frostie — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 06:11:33 -0000

Hi Andy

Sadly not all networks were as pro-active as they could/should have been with this. Shame considering the time and effort I put into it.

I have emailed you the link. Any questions, or if any other merchant wants info, drop me a mail, comment here or speak to your network and ask why you didn't receive it ;)

Chris

Re: Calling All Merchants – Speak To Your Network

Frostie — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 06:38:34 -0000

Gemma

I have sent you a copy to forward on to Ann Summers. Hope they find it useful and informative :)

Re: Check For Nasty Footers In Wordpress Themes

Frostie — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 10:07:17 -0000

Anthony - Ites definately base64 as in the code you've pasted, it says "....;eval(gzinflate(base64_decode($...."

There are a few online convertors too from memory which you may want to give a go with. Let me know if you still have problems.

Re: Not all Commission is Equal!

Frostie — Fri, 16 Feb 2007 08:08:44 -0000

My head hurts! I actually had to print this post out to understand all the scenarios!

I noticed this a number of months ago, and after realising it, contacted a few merchants to pinpoint the differences. Some were willing to change my comm's strucutre and others weren't even willing to discuss it. Obviously those links were changed immediately!

Also it's worth remembering that some items are VAT free and last year there was a problem with DVD.co.uk deducting VAT before paying commissions even thought the goods ordered were books and hence VAT free.

Re: Networks Get Your Own Merchant Content Correct

Frostie — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 11:48:47 -0000

I often get asked by merchants why I have joined them via 2 networks. After explaining I've found that in the past, I've been disapproved or left pending for a long time via one of them.

Re: Deep Link Generator Tool

Frostie — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 10:18:55 -0000

Yes I am aware, but I wasn't aware you brought it out 3 years ago mate! Thats shocking!

I found it a 2 months ago, and have since used it a number of times. One of the most useful tools around IMHO.

I think sometimes POR don't shout enough as they certainly dont get the recognition deserved for innovation!

Re: Twitter Affiliate Marketing in the UK

Frostie — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 07:12:56 -0000

Hey Clarke - thanks for the mention. As for "How to follow more people", I spookily blogged about this a few hours ago! A great tool called TweetPromote - http://bit.ly/gtx7p