Can I Use a ClickBank Affiliate Sales Link in Mailchimp While Sending Emails?

Many marketers and affiliate marketers use various email marketing services to reach out to their audience and promote products or services. Some of the most popular options include Mailchimp, AWeber, GetResponse, and MailerLite. Each of these platforms has its unique features, pricing structures, and restrictions. One common question that arises among affiliate marketers is whether they can use ClickBank affiliate sales links within email campaigns sent via Mailchimp.

Restrictions with Mailchimp

One of the primary concerns for affiliate marketers using Mailchimp is its restriction on affiliate marketing links, particularly ClickBank links. As of the latest update on May 20, 2020, Mailchimp's official stance is clear: they do not allow their users to use affiliate marketing services like ClickBank within the platform. This restriction applies to the free plan as well as the paid plans.

According to their customer support, if you are currently using Mailchimp for affiliate marketing, it is advisable to upgrade your account or consider alternative solutions like AWeber or GetResponse. These platforms offer features specifically tailored for affiliate marketing and allow their users to include affiliate links, including ClickBank links, in their email campaigns. For example, AWeber's autoresponder is designed to handle affiliate marketing effectively and comes with a 30-day free trial period, making it an attractive option for new users.

Email Marketing Alternatives

However, if you are on a tight budget and are looking for free email marketing services, there are still options available that do support affiliate marketing. One such alternative is MailerLite, which permits the inclusion of affiliate links even in their free plan. This makes it an appealing choice for those who want to start with a free service but still want the flexibility to include affiliate marketing in their campaigns.

Alternatively, other platforms like iContact, Wishpond, or SendX can also be considered. These platforms offer a range of features and pricing structures, catering to different needs and budgets. While some may require a paid subscription, they often provide a free trial period, allowing you to test the waters before committing to a paid plan.

Why Consider Upgrading or Other Platforms?

While the free plans of these platforms may seem appealing, it is important to consider the limitations and benefits of each option. If you plan to heavily rely on affiliate marketing as a core part of your business strategy, it might be more beneficial to invest in a paid plan or use a platform specifically designed for affiliate marketing.

For instance, AWeber, at $19 per month with a 30-day free trial, offers a range of features that are particularly useful for affiliate marketers. These include advanced autoresponder capabilities, segmented email lists, and analytics tools that can help you track the success of your campaigns. Similarly, GetResponse, starting at $15 per month, offers similar features and can be a suitable choice for affiliate marketers looking for robust email marketing tools.

MailerLite, on the other hand, provides a flexible pricing structure with no hidden fees and no contract. Their free plan is quite robust, allowing you to send up to 3,000 emails per month, which is more than sufficient for many small campaigns. Additionally, their support for affiliate links is a clear advantage over Mailchimp, as it makes it easier for users to integrate affiliate marketing into their campaigns.

Conclusion

To summarize, while Mailchimp does not allow the use of affiliate marketing links, particularly ClickBank links, in its free plan, there are alternative platforms like MailerLite, AWeber, and GetResponse that do support this aspect of affiliate marketing. The decision to upgrade or switch platforms ultimately depends on your specific needs, budget, and goals. By carefully evaluating your options, you can find the best fit for your affiliate marketing efforts and achieve your desired results.

Choosing the right email marketing service is crucial for the success of your affiliate marketing campaigns. Whether you decide to stay with MailerLite or opt for another platform, it is essential to explore all available options to ensure you are making the most of your resources.