Create Affiliate Campaigns using External Websites

Affiliate marketers can use the power of Referins's Affiliate Manager with external websites, eliminating the need to rely on in-platform websites or funnels. This feature allows you to create affiliate campaigns, track sales, and leverage automation with websites hosted on external platforms like WordPress, Wix, or Squarespace. By integrating Stripe and implementing tracking scripts, you can seamlessly manage your affiliate campaigns and sales from virtually any website.

Important Notes:

• Only products processed through Stripe are currently supported.
• One-time products will always adhere to the default commission settings.
• Recurring products can have customized commission rates. Add these products in the first step to configure product-specific commissions.
• To exclude a product from commissions, add it and set the commission rate to 0%.

How to Use the Affiliate Manager with External Websites

Step 1: Create a New Campaign

• Go to Affiliate Manager in your account under the Marketing section.
• Click Add to create a new campaign.

Step 2: Select an External Website

• On the campaign setup screen, select the External Website option under Source Details.
• Enter the URL of your external website (e.g., https://yourstore.com without a trailing slash).
• Ensure your Stripe integration is active for automatic tracking.

Step 3: Add Products to the Campaign

• Choose products from your Stripe account to associate with the campaign.
• Select product types such as recurring, one-time, digital, or physical.

Step 4: Configure Affiliate Commissions

• Set the commission structure for your affiliates, including percentage or flat-rate commissions.
• Adjust any additional settings as needed.

Step 5: Install Tracking Scripts

1. Visitor Tracking Script:
   • Copy the visitor tracking code provided during the campaign setup.
   • Paste the code into the custom code or header tracking code section of your external website editor (e.g., Advanced Settings in Squarespace).

1. Signup Tracking Script:

The difference between JavaScript event tracking and redirect tracking lies in how they capture user actions:

• JavaScript Event Tracking:
• Tracks user actions (like form submissions or button clicks) directly on the same page using JavaScript.
• Ideal for one-step processes where users don’t navigate to a new page after completing an action.
• Redirect Tracking:
• Tracks actions by monitoring when users are redirected to a different page (like a thank-you or confirmation page).
• Best for multi-step processes where an order or form submission leads to a follow-up page.
• Choose between JavaScript event tracking or redirect tracking based on your order process.

• Add the signup tracking script to the post-submit or thank-you page section of your external website’s form editor.

Note: The ability to add HTML for tracking scripts depends on the platform you’re using. Platforms like Squarespace support this, often tied directly to the form settings. Check your platform’s capabilities before proceeding.

Note: When adding tracking scripts, ensure you replace placeholders with the correct field names (e.g., first name, email) as defined by your platform. Field names vary depending on the platform used.

Step 6: Debug and Test

• Use the test link provided to check the script’s functionality.
• Inspect cookies and ensure tracking data flows correctly between your external website and Referins.

Step 7: Launch Your Campaign

• Save the campaign as a draft or publish it to start tracking leads and sales immediately.

Pro Tips

• Understand Your Website Editor: Each platform (WordPress, Wix, Squarespace) has different settings for adding scripts. Research your platform’s process for custom code integration.
• Use JavaScript Event Tracking for Simpler Setups: For one-step orders, JavaScript event tracking is straightforward and requires fewer redirects.
• Test Thoroughly Before Launching: Always debug and test the scripts to ensure they are working as expected.
• Regularly Monitor Campaign Performance: Use the affiliate manager dashboard to track leads, sales, and commissions.
• Seek Support for Complex Issues: If you’re unfamiliar with JavaScript or CSS, consider reaching out to support or consulting a developer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use the Affiliate Manager with any external website platform?
Yes, you can use it with platforms like WordPress, Wix, Squarespace, or any website builder that allows custom code integration.

2. Do I need Stripe to use this feature?
Yes, Stripe is required for automatic tracking of sales and affiliate commissions. Ensure your Stripe account is connected to Referins.

3. What is the difference between visitor tracking and signup tracking scripts?

• Visitor Tracking Script: Monitors website visits and collects analytics.
• Signup Tracking Script: Tracks conversions and signups tied to affiliate campaigns.

4. Can I debug my tracking scripts if they aren’t working?
Yes, use the test link provided in the campaign setup to debug your scripts. You can also check cookies and consult support if needed.

5. What happens if my external website doesn’t support custom code?
You may need to use a different platform or consult your website provider to enable custom code sections for adding scripts.

Use Case: Expanding Affiliate Campaigns Across Platforms

Imagine you’re running a Squarespace website selling digital products. By linking your website with Referins's Affiliate Manager, you can:

1. Create affiliate campaigns and integrate them with your existing store.
2. Track affiliate sales and leads through Stripe without manual intervention.
3. Use visitor and signup tracking scripts to monitor conversions seamlessly.
4. Generate additional revenue by leveraging your affiliate network across platforms.

This setup helps you grow your affiliate program without being limited to in-platform websites, giving you the flexibility to use the tools you already have.