I ignored this LESSON from Kyle and paid dearly.
I'm in my 9th year at WA, and I have a confession.
At one point, I almost gave up being an affiliate marketer.
Because Google tanked my site, one after the other.
Over the years, I've built a handful of websites. And I repeated the process.
1. Keyword research.
2. Publish Content.
3. Rank, and earn.
4. Repeat 1-3.
5. Lost traffic because of Google update.
Honestly, it was quite discouraging.
But on the other hand, it accentuates why newbie affiliate marketers should FOLLOW what's taught at WA.
I know that Kyle recently revamped the courses, but the basic principle is
- Build a Brandable Business that Offers Value to Your Audience.
NOT manipulating Google by stuffing keywords.
NOT creating low-quality content at scale.
NOT being blinded by greed that you forget you're running a business.
I was not a good 'student', because I disregarded Kyle's advice and strayed from the path.
Sure, I've made money at some point.
But it was only a matter of time before Google hit my sites.
And if you've been following the latest Google update (March 2024), many niche sites are being hit. Those sites are created solely to monetize from keywords.
For example, if you build a site solely because "best carbon fiber motorcycle helmets" is a low-competition keyword, you will not have much success.
You need to consider if you're an authority in that subject. Why should readers listen to you? Can they trust you?
More importantly, are you putting out content that's unique and not rehashing existing articles? Do you include your experience, stories, and opinion?
Get this.
Affiliate marketing is only a tool to monetize a brandable business. Would your visitors return after finding that article on Google?
Or does your blog lack the personality to turn these visitors into loyal fans?
Last year, I experimented on my 6th website with all these realizations. I know for certain that as long as I stay on the narrow path, success is possible.
I know that Google is not against AI-assisted content because I've published some good content that is still ranking well.
With clarity, I'm moving to the next phase with WA's brand-new AI-powered hubs.
How's your journey in WA? Are you repeating my mistakes? Let's chat.
Recent Comments
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Thanks Kenny. When anyone, starts any business, they shouldn't view it as a fleeting business that won't stand the test of time.
Instead (as hard as it may be when starting out), folks should view their business as one that is going to be long term, successful, and one that is going to make a difference in people's lives.
Be the best in your niche, but know that this will happen with time. Thanks for sharing Kenny, you come with a lot of experience sharing your advice. :)
Great to share.
Unlike past Google updates, a few AI-assisted content my writers did survived the March update.
I take that as a sign that I've finally nailed down what 'helpful' content is.
Sometimes, we feel that we're creating great content, but the audience might feel differently.
I'm going to use the HUB for my next project. Will keep the community updated.
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Those are all great insights. Thanks for sharing your perspective.
Susan