This is a guest post by the Internet Marketing Center.

People often write to us asking which affiliate marketing programs we recommend. And it’s no wonder… with thousands of affiliate programs available, how do you choose the one that’s right for you?

If you’re looking for a reputable affiliate program to join, we recommend you stick to the better-known affiliate directories and networks when you start your research.

There are three kinds of places where you should focus your search for good affiliate programs…

1. Affiliate directories

Affiliate directories are a great source of information about affiliate marketing programs. In order to be listed in the more reputable directories, like AssociatePrograms.com and AffiliatesDirectory.com, affiliate programs must submit a formal application for review. Only programs that meet certain specifications, such as reliable tracking, are accepted.

In fact, AssociatePrograms.com freely admits that they reject over half of all applications for listings they receive.

2. Affiliate networks

Affiliate networks are third-party solution providers who list hundreds (usually thousands) of affiliate marketing programs, all indexed and managed using their own personal systems and software.

Essentially, the affiliate network acts as the middleman between you and the affiliate marketing program, tracking your sales independently and making sure that you get paid. You sign up as a participating affiliate (it costs you nothing), and you’re given access to their list of affiliate marketing programs.

There are fees for the affiliate program to join, though, so chances are if they’ve paid those fees, it’s unlikely they’re a fly-by-night operation.

If you choose to go this route, the top three affiliate networks that we recommend are:

1. Commission Junction
2. ClickXchange
3. LinkShare

3. Individual websites

Another way you can find affiliate marketing programs is simply to visit twebsites that offer products you’re interested in promoting. If the site you visit has an affiliate program, it will be promoted on the site itself.

The benefit of going this route is that the less popular affiliate programs will often offer better deals. As well, their products will usually not be as exposed.

… We hope that points you in the right direction! If you have any more questions about affiliate marketing programs, please share them with us in the comments.

~ Courtesy of the Internet Marketing Center