So, you’ve heard of the Amazon Influencer Program, but have you met its fun, slightly mysterious cousin, the Creator Connections program? Essentially, it’s a way for Amazon Influencers to partner with brands for shoppable content and – drumroll – earn extra commissions on certain products. You’re already putting in the work, so why not boost your income with a few quick tweaks? Here’s everything you need to know about making the most of Creator Connections, plus a few “insider” tips on navigating Amazon’s program quirks.
What is Amazon’s Creator Connections Program?
Imagine a matchmaking service between sellers and influencers, with Amazon playing Cupid. Sellers want their products to stand out, and you – the influencer – want higher commissions. In comes Creator Connections, a program that pairs you with sellers who offer an extra commission if you create shoppable content for their items. It’s a win-win: brands get exposure, and you get a little extra cash for your efforts.
So, How Do You Join?
Here’s the thing: Creator Connections is an invite-only club (but with recent changes Amazon made in August 2024, almost everyone gets the invite once they have achieved the Bronze Star in the Amazon Influencer Program). If you’ve already been invited, check under the “Promotions” tab in your Amazon Associates dashboard. If not, try opening a support chat with Amazon Associates and asking to be invited once you hit their minimum requirements (100 clicks and at least $1 earned). And if you’re already in? You’re ready to explore the world of enhanced commissions.
How to Use Creator Connections to Your Advantage
Okay, you’re in. Now what? Head over to Creator Connections in your promotions tab and prepare for a tidal wave of campaigns. You’ll see everything from kitchen gadgets to pet products, each with its own commission rate and requirements.
Pro tip: Use Amazon’s filters to sort by “highest earning potential” or “recommended” campaigns to find the best ones faster.
Once you’ve found a campaign that catches your eye, check the commission rate. Some campaigns offer up to 30% (or even more!), giving your earnings a serious boost.
Do You Need to Buy the Products?
Nope! Though you might have to get a little crafty here. Amazon removed the option for sellers to offer free samples as part of Creator Connections. It’s actually default language built into each Creator Connection campaign page. But if there’s a product you’re eyeing and don’t want to purchase outright, try contacting the seller directly through the Message function on the page. Many sellers are open to sending samples if you reach out, especially if you share your social media following details.
How (and When) You Actually Get Paid
This part is… a little murky. Officially, Amazon states you’ll be paid 60 days after a sale. But because Creator Connections campaigns have a range of start and end dates, the actual payout timing can vary. Fortunately, you can track your commissions on your Amazon Influencer dashboard. Expect your Creator Connections earnings to be lumped into your monthly Amazon payouts, so you’ll see the extra boost without needing to wait for a separate check.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Creator Connections
1. Start with the Recommendations Tab
Amazon does a decent job of recommending campaigns based on your past purchases and content, so check those out first. If you’ve already created content for a recommended product, just opt into the campaign, link to your existing content, and let the commissions roll in.
2. Use Filters to Find High-Paying, Long-Term Campaigns
Skip the 30-day campaigns unless you’re ready to churn out quick content. Longer campaigns (up to a year) mean more chances to rack up commissions without the rush, so look for those options if you want a more hands-off approach.
3. Make Sure to Disclose Partnerships
If you’re receiving extra commissions or a free sample, disclosure is a must. To stay compliant with Amazon’s and the FTC’s guidelines, add “#ad” to the title or description of your content.
The Biggest Perk of Creator Connections? Extra Cash for Less Work
Creator Connections gives influencers a unique advantage to up their earnings on products they’d likely be sharing anyway. It’s like finding loose change in the couch but way more lucrative. And for influencers who are strategic with their content, that extra commission can quickly add up, especially when campaigns offer up to 30% on top of standard rates.
So, what are you waiting for? If you’re already on Amazon’s influencer platform, Creator Connections is a simple, no-fuss way to increase your commissions. Just browse, select a campaign, link to your content, and watch the extra income flow in. And if you’re still waiting for an invite, keep asking. Just remember: persistence pays off – especially with Amazon.
