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The Wealthy Affiliate Platform
Updated

Has anyone else had issues setting up email forwarders here at WA that point to your Gmail account? Ever since moving my primary domain to WA, people have been telling me that

Problem solved! It was a problem with the way WA had my domain/DNS setup, specifically the SPF record was incorrect. Support responded back last night they were investigating further, and this morning that it was finally resolved. All is well in the world again! :)

Mine on all sites is working perfectly.

This is pretty weird... Since I moved my primary domain to WA back in Nov of 2013, I've never had an actual mailbox setup for email. It's always been a forwarder to my gmail account. However, since creating a mailbox today for the same address (and deleting the forwarder), it appears all the emails going back to Nov 2013 in somehow in there!

So, does WA somehow still capture all the email for the domain, even if there is no mailbox created?

It's most likely the following:

Anything that lands in your inbox is then forwarded to whatever address you setup as the forwarder.

Most servers keep all mail on the server too, so when you connected today you downloaded everything.

Thanks again Welshy! That makes perfect sense and has to be what is going on. I setup our email now per the instructions you posted earlier, and it's working great. I just logged into the webmail client and purged everything older than today. That should take care of things! :)

The rabbit hole keeps getting deeper! :)

When I try to send messages to other people (now using SMTP on my own domain), I sometimes receive this error:

"550 5.7.1 550 Message rejected because SPF check failed"

When I try to do a DNS/MX record check of my domain, I get the following:

"Warning: Received Non-Authoritative (lame) Answer from: 'ns1.mywahosting.com'"

I did a little research on SPF errors and found this:

"Hostname returned a missing or invalid SPF record
Having a proper Sender Policy Framework (SPF) record increases the chances people will get emails you send. Without one, your email has a greater chance of being marked as Spam. Receiving this warning means you either don’t have a SPF record or it is invalid."

I'm starting to think WA domains are not setup 100% correctly.

I can only suggest that you pass on the details to support via a ticket and see if they can answer or resolve this.

Already did that. :) Just figured I'd post the same info here in case someone else has encountered the same problem.

The more I dig into this, I think it could be an issue with the domain I'm trying to send to. I can send to some domains just fine, and not others. Also, this particular domain is one that could not send email to me when I was doing the forwarding to gmail.

I don't use WA hosting but maybe try setup your email differently https://my.wealthyaffiliate.com/training/send-receive-your-domain-email-via-gmail
It may work better than the forwarding option, but to be honest I'm not sure why that isn't working correctly in the first place.

Thanks Welshy -- that's exactly what I needed! I wasn't sure what the POP & SMTP settings were supposed to be.

So far, so good. Mailbox is working. However, I'm SHOCKED by the fact that within about 30 minutes, over 13 THOUSAND emails poured in! HOLY COW!!!! Most of that, of course, is SPAM, but I can't believe I'm getting that much. I guess Gmail spends most of it's time sort out junk email from the good stuff. And it does a darn fine job of it, I might add! :)

I have not had that problem, but I thought I did once and I sent an email to myself to see if it was working. Thats the only thing you can do that I know of. Send to yourself and have friends ( spouse, family members) send to you to test it out.

I've had many people sending test messages to me. Some work fine, others do not. Unfortunately, I never know when my email isn't working unless someone tells me.

I'm going to try changing my two main addresses from forwarders to actual mailboxes. Then I have to figure out how to POP into them from Gmail to pull the mail. I don't like having to do this because forwarders are so much more convenient, but I don't know what else to try.

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Email fwd to Gmail is bouncing and/or delayed

Email fwd to Gmail is bouncing and/or delayed

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The Wealthy Affiliate Platform
Updated

Has anyone else had issues setting up email forwarders here at WA that point to your Gmail account? Ever since moving my primary domain to WA, people have been telling me that

Problem solved! It was a problem with the way WA had my domain/DNS setup, specifically the SPF record was incorrect. Support responded back last night they were investigating further, and this morning that it was finally resolved. All is well in the world again! :)

Mine on all sites is working perfectly.

This is pretty weird... Since I moved my primary domain to WA back in Nov of 2013, I've never had an actual mailbox setup for email. It's always been a forwarder to my gmail account. However, since creating a mailbox today for the same address (and deleting the forwarder), it appears all the emails going back to Nov 2013 in somehow in there!

So, does WA somehow still capture all the email for the domain, even if there is no mailbox created?

It's most likely the following:

Anything that lands in your inbox is then forwarded to whatever address you setup as the forwarder.

Most servers keep all mail on the server too, so when you connected today you downloaded everything.

Thanks again Welshy! That makes perfect sense and has to be what is going on. I setup our email now per the instructions you posted earlier, and it's working great. I just logged into the webmail client and purged everything older than today. That should take care of things! :)

The rabbit hole keeps getting deeper! :)

When I try to send messages to other people (now using SMTP on my own domain), I sometimes receive this error:

"550 5.7.1 550 Message rejected because SPF check failed"

When I try to do a DNS/MX record check of my domain, I get the following:

"Warning: Received Non-Authoritative (lame) Answer from: 'ns1.mywahosting.com'"

I did a little research on SPF errors and found this:

"Hostname returned a missing or invalid SPF record
Having a proper Sender Policy Framework (SPF) record increases the chances people will get emails you send. Without one, your email has a greater chance of being marked as Spam. Receiving this warning means you either don’t have a SPF record or it is invalid."

I'm starting to think WA domains are not setup 100% correctly.

I can only suggest that you pass on the details to support via a ticket and see if they can answer or resolve this.

Already did that. :) Just figured I'd post the same info here in case someone else has encountered the same problem.

The more I dig into this, I think it could be an issue with the domain I'm trying to send to. I can send to some domains just fine, and not others. Also, this particular domain is one that could not send email to me when I was doing the forwarding to gmail.

I don't use WA hosting but maybe try setup your email differently https://my.wealthyaffiliate.com/training/send-receive-your-domain-email-via-gmail
It may work better than the forwarding option, but to be honest I'm not sure why that isn't working correctly in the first place.

Thanks Welshy -- that's exactly what I needed! I wasn't sure what the POP & SMTP settings were supposed to be.

So far, so good. Mailbox is working. However, I'm SHOCKED by the fact that within about 30 minutes, over 13 THOUSAND emails poured in! HOLY COW!!!! Most of that, of course, is SPAM, but I can't believe I'm getting that much. I guess Gmail spends most of it's time sort out junk email from the good stuff. And it does a darn fine job of it, I might add! :)

I have not had that problem, but I thought I did once and I sent an email to myself to see if it was working. Thats the only thing you can do that I know of. Send to yourself and have friends ( spouse, family members) send to you to test it out.

I've had many people sending test messages to me. Some work fine, others do not. Unfortunately, I never know when my email isn't working unless someone tells me.

I'm going to try changing my two main addresses from forwarders to actual mailboxes. Then I have to figure out how to POP into them from Gmail to pull the mail. I don't like having to do this because forwarders are so much more convenient, but I don't know what else to try.

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asked in
Everything Wordpress
Updated

Hi All: Just wanted to post an FYI for anyone who might currently be using the AP Schema Wordpress plug-in for posting product review summaries on your sites. I talked to the

Thanks for heads up :)

Thanks for the heads up and the link.

Thanks! Hey, I should drop a line to Dean myself.

He's not very active here at WA anymore, but he did respond quickly to my email. He says he abandoned the AP Schema project to save his sanity. :)

LOL, I heard that!

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AP Schema Plug-In is no longer supported and will be removed.

AP Schema Plug-In is no longer supported and will be removed.

asked in
Everything Wordpress
Updated

Hi All: Just wanted to post an FYI for anyone who might currently be using the AP Schema Wordpress plug-in for posting product review summaries on your sites. I talked to the

Thanks for heads up :)

Thanks for the heads up and the link.

Thanks! Hey, I should drop a line to Dean myself.

He's not very active here at WA anymore, but he did respond quickly to my email. He says he abandoned the AP Schema project to save his sanity. :)

LOL, I heard that!

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WA Affiliate Program
Updated

Hi All:

I've been reading about FTC regulations surrounding affiliate marketing and the requirement to have an affiliate disclaimer on your site if you post affiliate link

I don't mind having the disclosure page to fulfill legal requirements. My page gets .01% of my total traffic, and I have no desire for it to get more traffic. I don't see the point in using it as a promotional opportunity, but others may think of it differently.

~Jude

PS: Silly Q, but gonna ask in anyway: Other than the PP on WA, do we actually have another disclaimer on WA.... Ta!

Yes, according to the FTC, you are required to disclose that you are an affiliate marketer. And as mentioned already, some affiliate programs (like Amazon), have certain requirements on wording and placement/visibility on your site and/or links.

Leo posted a good article about this, along with a disclaimer you can copy/paste and then modify slightly for your own site.

https://my.wealthyaffiliate.com/leoemery/blog/affiliate-earnings-disclaimer-copy

Thanks for heads up on Amazon..... Didn't see that. Also think it's a good idea, and even on a website promoting WA as part of the "package" like one of mine, would work better as well..... Will suss and work through :)

Would it be of any value to add it to our privacy page?

At the bottom of my Privacy Policy, I just put "Also see my Affiliate Disclaimer" and included a text link.

gotcha!

After a little searching I found this: "As I’m sure you know, the Federal Trade Commission instituted guidelines several years ago requiring affiliates to disclose when they are using affiliate links. There has been hefty debate about whether, and how, this applies to typical affiliate marketers."

So, it's better to be safe than sorry: http://goo.gl/M6Z9D1

Hi I think its a good idea doing this as it protect everyone and also it look more professional

It seems to me that this is a good idea not just to promote WA but to promote any affiliate product.

Hi Dave - I've seen a few sites that specifically say in the about me page, that it's an affiliate site, and that they get commission from any sales made from click-through purchases, but that it does not affect the price they pay.

I suppose being upfront about it, and explaining what an affiliate marketer is, and then linking to WA so they can find out more - would be absolutely fine. No hidden links craftily taking people to WA - so I don't see any problem with this at all.

All the best, Mark

Good question. i will be watching this discussion. I would love to see some opinions on this

Thanks Shawn. I know this probably wouldn't result in a ton of referrals to WA, but it certainly could help. I'm sure a lot of people visit our awesome niche sites and wonder to themselves, "Gee, I wonder how I could build a cool website like this and have an online business of my own."

I'm just suggesting we make it obvious and lead the thirsty to get a drink! :)

Another idea I had... What about something in the footer that unobtrusively states, "Powered by WordPress at Wealthy Affiliate" (with a link of course). I dunno... Just a thought!

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Using Affiliate Disclaimer to gently promote WA??

Using Affiliate Disclaimer to gently promote WA??

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WA Affiliate Program
Updated

Hi All:

I've been reading about FTC regulations surrounding affiliate marketing and the requirement to have an affiliate disclaimer on your site if you post affiliate link

I don't mind having the disclosure page to fulfill legal requirements. My page gets .01% of my total traffic, and I have no desire for it to get more traffic. I don't see the point in using it as a promotional opportunity, but others may think of it differently.

~Jude

PS: Silly Q, but gonna ask in anyway: Other than the PP on WA, do we actually have another disclaimer on WA.... Ta!

Yes, according to the FTC, you are required to disclose that you are an affiliate marketer. And as mentioned already, some affiliate programs (like Amazon), have certain requirements on wording and placement/visibility on your site and/or links.

Leo posted a good article about this, along with a disclaimer you can copy/paste and then modify slightly for your own site.

https://my.wealthyaffiliate.com/leoemery/blog/affiliate-earnings-disclaimer-copy

Thanks for heads up on Amazon..... Didn't see that. Also think it's a good idea, and even on a website promoting WA as part of the "package" like one of mine, would work better as well..... Will suss and work through :)

Would it be of any value to add it to our privacy page?

At the bottom of my Privacy Policy, I just put "Also see my Affiliate Disclaimer" and included a text link.

gotcha!

After a little searching I found this: "As I’m sure you know, the Federal Trade Commission instituted guidelines several years ago requiring affiliates to disclose when they are using affiliate links. There has been hefty debate about whether, and how, this applies to typical affiliate marketers."

So, it's better to be safe than sorry: http://goo.gl/M6Z9D1

Hi I think its a good idea doing this as it protect everyone and also it look more professional

It seems to me that this is a good idea not just to promote WA but to promote any affiliate product.

Hi Dave - I've seen a few sites that specifically say in the about me page, that it's an affiliate site, and that they get commission from any sales made from click-through purchases, but that it does not affect the price they pay.

I suppose being upfront about it, and explaining what an affiliate marketer is, and then linking to WA so they can find out more - would be absolutely fine. No hidden links craftily taking people to WA - so I don't see any problem with this at all.

All the best, Mark

Good question. i will be watching this discussion. I would love to see some opinions on this

Thanks Shawn. I know this probably wouldn't result in a ton of referrals to WA, but it certainly could help. I'm sure a lot of people visit our awesome niche sites and wonder to themselves, "Gee, I wonder how I could build a cool website like this and have an online business of my own."

I'm just suggesting we make it obvious and lead the thirsty to get a drink! :)

Another idea I had... What about something in the footer that unobtrusively states, "Powered by WordPress at Wealthy Affiliate" (with a link of course). I dunno... Just a thought!

See more comments

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WA Affiliate Program
Updated

Just wondering when a sale becomes an Approved Commission? I'm looking at my stats and that part doesn't make sense to me.

It is actually 90 days that way if the person cancels and asked for there money back within that period is the only thing I can think of. But in all congrats on your yearly commission sale woot

Is it a sale for the year membership?

Yes.

Ok so the yearly membership commission is held for either 60 or 90 days (I am not sure which of the two). It clears after the long wait, I can't tell you why it's set up like that but I know it is the way it is...

OK, that explains it. Thank you Alex!

I know for Amazon it's not an approved sale if, for example, you click your own link and buy something. Your situation might be different, but that's what I'd bet.

I'm referring to the WA affiliate program.

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What is an "Approved Commission"?

What is an "Approved Commission"?

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WA Affiliate Program
Updated

Just wondering when a sale becomes an Approved Commission? I'm looking at my stats and that part doesn't make sense to me.

It is actually 90 days that way if the person cancels and asked for there money back within that period is the only thing I can think of. But in all congrats on your yearly commission sale woot

Is it a sale for the year membership?

Yes.

Ok so the yearly membership commission is held for either 60 or 90 days (I am not sure which of the two). It clears after the long wait, I can't tell you why it's set up like that but I know it is the way it is...

OK, that explains it. Thank you Alex!

I know for Amazon it's not an approved sale if, for example, you click your own link and buy something. Your situation might be different, but that's what I'd bet.

I'm referring to the WA affiliate program.

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Keyword, Niche and Market Research
Updated

I watched a WAbinar last night about niche picking, and that made me really think about the niche I selected. First of all, it's personal finance, but I'm targeting two specific

If you feel you are sorta of an authority on credit and debt counseling, write about the programs and why you think they are a waste. Give them plenty of good, free, generic advise. Later on you could add like a low cost newsletter type subscription page or pages for detailed advise on these matters, or how to rebuild their credit or set up a budget after resolving their debt issues. Your moral issues are kept intact by providing free help on getting started in debt and credit management. A low cost subscription for detailed help and recovery is actually saving people money by learning how to manage their debt and money correctly.

I'm just giving my opinion but if you can't feel passionate about what you need to promote and write about then definitely pick something new...Maybe you can find another way to help people better their lives that won't cost them money until they can afford it! You could represent affiliate marketing, I know it helped me a lot when my son was going through cancer treatments, $ was deff needed.. people need direction and there are plenty of free ways they can do this..just point them in the right direction..Good luck!


.Hi Dave,
I think you are definitely on the right track just because you´re second guessing yourself! I do think it is important to work on a niche that you really like as you will spend A LOT of time working on it.

I think a "bad" product gives you an excellent oportunity to gain "authority" in your niche, as your clients will notice that you know where you´re talking about! Please DO use these "bad" products and kindly tell your audience WHY you think they are bad.
So good or bad, everything is there to monitize. The only think you have to ask yourself is this: do you want to include an affiliatelink of the "bad" products or don´t you? That is up to you. You are NOT responsable of what other people decide. If you do not include the link, at least you can talk about them and warn people!
Good luck! But you will do just fine:)

Thank you Marian. That does help put things in perspective a bit. I'm sticking with my niche. And hey, I'm not locked into anything. I have plenty of niche ideas on the back burner I can work on once my primary one no longer needs life support.

Dave

I don't think there's a dilemma at all. You've already spelled out what you believe in. You don't want to promote anything unless you believe in it and you don't want those who already have money troubles to spend even more on useless products. You want to help people get out of debt.

You're not second guessing your niche you're sensibly setting out what you want for your site.

How are you going to monetise it? By offering products you do believe in. They may not be as lucrative but that's what you want.

Will this make you mega bucks? No one could say. But if you offer good advice and products that people need there's no reason why it shouldn't be a successful one.

Beverley

Thanks Beverly. You're right. I need to trust my gut, stick with my passion, and have faith the rest will come.

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Did I pick the right niche? Second guessing myself

Did I pick the right niche? Second guessing myself

asked in
Keyword, Niche and Market Research
Updated

I watched a WAbinar last night about niche picking, and that made me really think about the niche I selected. First of all, it's personal finance, but I'm targeting two specific

If you feel you are sorta of an authority on credit and debt counseling, write about the programs and why you think they are a waste. Give them plenty of good, free, generic advise. Later on you could add like a low cost newsletter type subscription page or pages for detailed advise on these matters, or how to rebuild their credit or set up a budget after resolving their debt issues. Your moral issues are kept intact by providing free help on getting started in debt and credit management. A low cost subscription for detailed help and recovery is actually saving people money by learning how to manage their debt and money correctly.

I'm just giving my opinion but if you can't feel passionate about what you need to promote and write about then definitely pick something new...Maybe you can find another way to help people better their lives that won't cost them money until they can afford it! You could represent affiliate marketing, I know it helped me a lot when my son was going through cancer treatments, $ was deff needed.. people need direction and there are plenty of free ways they can do this..just point them in the right direction..Good luck!


.Hi Dave,
I think you are definitely on the right track just because you´re second guessing yourself! I do think it is important to work on a niche that you really like as you will spend A LOT of time working on it.

I think a "bad" product gives you an excellent oportunity to gain "authority" in your niche, as your clients will notice that you know where you´re talking about! Please DO use these "bad" products and kindly tell your audience WHY you think they are bad.
So good or bad, everything is there to monitize. The only think you have to ask yourself is this: do you want to include an affiliatelink of the "bad" products or don´t you? That is up to you. You are NOT responsable of what other people decide. If you do not include the link, at least you can talk about them and warn people!
Good luck! But you will do just fine:)

Thank you Marian. That does help put things in perspective a bit. I'm sticking with my niche. And hey, I'm not locked into anything. I have plenty of niche ideas on the back burner I can work on once my primary one no longer needs life support.

Dave

I don't think there's a dilemma at all. You've already spelled out what you believe in. You don't want to promote anything unless you believe in it and you don't want those who already have money troubles to spend even more on useless products. You want to help people get out of debt.

You're not second guessing your niche you're sensibly setting out what you want for your site.

How are you going to monetise it? By offering products you do believe in. They may not be as lucrative but that's what you want.

Will this make you mega bucks? No one could say. But if you offer good advice and products that people need there's no reason why it shouldn't be a successful one.

Beverley

Thanks Beverly. You're right. I need to trust my gut, stick with my passion, and have faith the rest will come.

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Login
Create Your Free Wealthy Affiliate Account Today!
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4-Steps to Success Class
icon
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icon
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icon
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icon
Core “Business Start Up” Training