Negotiating better igaming affiliate deals is about more than just asking for a higher payout. Success comes from understanding the dynamics of the partnership, knowing when and how to make your requests, and approaching discussions strategically.
In this step-by-step guide, we’ll share tips to help you strengthen your partnerships and earn you higher commissions. By following these strategies, you’ll learn how to position yourself effectively, demonstrate your worth, and negotiate the best possible affiliate deals.
1. Know your value
Be clear about what you bring to the table. No one knows your traffic better than you. Take the time to understand your capabilities, your traffic quality, and the results you can deliver. Portraying confidence and strength during negotiations signals that you understand your worth.
When you have a clear grasp of the value you provide, it becomes much easier to justify your requests and push for better terms.
2. Understand the other side
Know who you’re negotiating with. Make sure you fully understand all expectations and terms before committing to any deal. Review the terms and conditions carefully and ask for clarification on any KPIs or performance metrics the partner uses to evaluate traffic.
Setting clear expectations upfront helps prevent misunderstandings later on. It’s also important to know the brand’s capabilities—ask about realistic budgets, available resources, and any limitations that might affect your performance or scaling plans.
3. Timing is everything
Timing is crucial when negotiating. Avoid asking for too much out of the gate because it can set expectations unrealistically high. If your performance doesn’t immediately support your demands, you risk losing the deal before you’ve had a chance to demonstrate your real value. Instead, focus on building rapport and developing a strong working relationship with your account manager. Deliver consistent, high-quality traffic first, and then wait for the right moment to request an increase.
Pro Tip: Try to avoid requesting payout increases during the summer months. This is often a slow period for the gambling industry, when budgets tend to be tighter.
4. Supporting data
Back up your request with cold, hard facts. In negotiations, data is everything. When you can demonstrate your quality and long-term potential with clear performance numbers, it leaves little room for debate. Solid results not only strengthens your position but also shows the partner that your request is justified and grounded in real data.
5. Avoid red flags
Watch for any signs that could point to future problems. Prioritize full transparency in reporting and maintain clear, consistent communication with your account manager. Be aware of changes in ownership or unusually frequent staff turnover, as these can indicate problems behind the scenes.
Remain cautious of brands offering large budgets or overly generous deals despite having little reputation or track record. Ultimately, securing a better payout means nothing if the brand or partner disappears in six months.
6. Be ready to compromise
Flexibility is essential when negotiating. Keep an open mind when it comes to options and alternatives. The most successful partnerships are built on cooperation and collaboration. If you’re unwilling to compromise, the relationship can quickly become strained.
Showing that you can work together toward shared goals creates trust and often leads to better long-term outcomes. For example, you might agree to lower your payout request in exchange for a higher cap.
7. Talk in person if possible
Face-to-face communication is incredibly valuable when negotiating. Meeting in person creates a level of connection that can’t be achieved via email. If you have the chance to meet your account manager at an igaming conference or industry event, make sure you take advantage of it.
These interactions help build trust, strengthen rapport, and create a sense of camaraderie that can positively influence your partnership long-term. In many cases, you can achieve better results in a direct, in-person conversation than you ever could through a Zoom call or Telegram message.
Final Thoughts
Negotiation is a necessary part of managing affiliate deals. A successful deal isn’t just about pushing for the highest rate—it’s about building partnerships where both sides can benefit. When you come prepared, ask the right questions, and negotiate with clear goals, you put yourself in a better position to succeed.