Starting as a casino affiliate can feel daunting, especially when you’re hunting for your first partnerships. Without the right strategy, securing deals with casino operators might seem impossible.
But here’s the good news: there are proven ways to connect with operators, even if you’re just starting out. This guide will break down actionable steps to help you find casinos to partner with, negotiate better deals, and get your affiliate website or traffic ready for success.
1. Understand the Basics of Casino Affiliate Partnerships
Before diving into partnerships, it’s important to understand how casino affiliate programs work.
- What Are Casino Affiliate Programs?
These programs allow affiliates to earn commissions by driving players to casino websites. You’ll be paid based on revenue share, CPA (Cost Per Acquisition), or hybrid deals. - How Do You Get Approved?
Most programs require a working website or proof of traffic sources before approval. The more professional your presentation, the better your chances.
2. Start with the Casino’s Affiliate Page
Most online casinos have dedicated affiliate programs accessible via their websites. Scroll to the footer of the casino’s homepage, where you’ll often find links labeled “Affiliate,” “Partnership,” or “Become an Affiliate.”
Pros:
- Easy and direct application process.
- Transparent details about commission structures.
Cons:
- You may be placed on low-tier deals if you apply cold without a referral.
3. Leverage Networking and Referrals
Getting introduced to an operator by another affiliate is one of the fastest ways to establish trust and secure better deals.
How to Do It:
- Join Affiliate Groups: Look for casino affiliate communities on Skype, Discord, or Facebook.
- Ask for Referrals: In these groups, ask other affiliates for recommendations or direct introductions to their affiliate managers.
Why It Works:
Affiliate managers are more likely to approve your application if it comes through a trusted referral.
4. Use Dummy Websites to Build Credibility
If you’re just starting and don’t have a traffic-heavy website, a staged or dummy site can be a game-changer.
Steps to Create One:
- Build a basic comparison website using a template or WordPress theme.
- Populate it with casino brands (even if you’re not partnered with them yet).
- Ensure the site looks polished and professional.
Pro Tip: Highlight reputable casinos on your dummy site to create a perception of quality. While you’re not claiming partnerships, this strategy demonstrates your site’s potential.
5. Prioritize Negotiation Over Default Deals
Many affiliate programs offer default revenue share tiers based on the volume of traffic you generate. These initial deals are often unfavorable.
What to Do Instead:
- Negotiate Directly: Contact affiliate managers via email or Skype before signing up.
- Request Custom Deals: Ask for better commission rates or hybrid deals (e.g., revenue share + CPA).
Example: Instead of a 25% revenue share starting point, negotiate for 40% + CPA bonuses.
6. Target the Right Casinos for Your Market
Not all casinos are created equal, and not all will fit your target audience.
How to Identify Suitable Casinos:
- Search for “best online casinos [your target region]” to find top-performing brands.
- Analyze which casinos other affiliates rank highly—this often signals good performance or favorable deals.
- Avoid prioritizing casinos featured prominently in banner ads; these slots are often paid placements.
7. Tap Into Affiliate Manager Insights
Affiliate managers are your direct point of contact and a valuable resource for insights into how their program operates.
How to Approach Them:
- Be transparent about your experience level and goals.
- Highlight your website or traffic plan.
- Ask questions about performance metrics, top markets, and commission structures.
8. Build Relationships in Industry Communities
The casino affiliate industry thrives on connections. The more you network, the easier it becomes to establish partnerships.
Where to Network:
- Affiliate events like SiGMA or iGB Affiliate London.
- Online forums and Skype groups for casino affiliates.
Benefits of Networking:
- Learn from experienced affiliates.
- Get insider tips on reliable operators and exclusive deals.
9. Show Operators What They Want
Casino operators prioritize affiliates who can deliver quality, high-converting traffic.
What Operators Look For:
- SEO traffic from organic searches.
- Professional, niche-specific websites.
- Affiliates with a clear strategy for player acquisition.
If you’re planning to promote through unconventional methods (e.g., TikTok, email lists), ensure your strategy aligns with the operator’s expectations.
10. Be Persistent and Patient
Breaking into the casino affiliate industry takes time, but persistence pays off.
Key Takeaways:
- Follow up with affiliate managers if you don’t hear back.
- Start small and gradually build your portfolio of partnerships.
- Treat your first deals as stepping stones to higher commissions and more lucrative opportunities.
Last Words
Finding casinos to work with as a new affiliate might seem challenging, but the right approach makes all the difference. Whether you leverage networking, create a strong website, or negotiate custom deals, there’s a path to success for every affiliate.
Focus on building trust, learning from others, and continuously improving your strategy. With time and effort, your partnerships will grow—and so will your profits.