Affiliate Marketing vs. Digital Marketing: What's the Difference?

Published by Linda Bomba — 01-22-2025 12:01:34 PM


When diving into the world of online business, you may encounter terms like affiliate marketing and digital marketing. While they’re often used interchangeably, they refer to distinct strategies. Understanding their differences can help you determine which is best for your goals. Let’s break it down.

What is Affiliate Marketing?

Affiliate marketing is a performance-based business model where you promote other companies' products or services. When someone makes a purchase or completes a specific action (like signing up for a newsletter) through your unique affiliate link, you earn a commission.

Key Features of Affiliate Marketing:
  • Third-Party Promotion: You don’t own the product; you’re simply promoting it.

  • Commission-Based: Earnings are tied to successful conversions.

  • Low Overhead: You don’t need to handle inventory, shipping, or customer service.

  • Focused Approach: Typically involves specific niches or audiences.

Example:

Imagine you run a blog about fitness. By sharing affiliate links to workout equipment or nutrition supplements, you earn a percentage of each sale made through your links.

What is Digital Marketing?

Digital marketing encompasses all online efforts to promote a brand, product, or service. It includes a wide array of strategies and channels designed to connect with audiences, build brand awareness, and drive sales.

Key Features of Digital Marketing:
  • Comprehensive Approach: Includes everything from email marketing to social media advertising.

  • Brand Ownership: Typically involves promoting your own products or services.

  • Diverse Strategies: Utilizes SEO, PPC, content marketing, and more.

  • Higher Investment: Requires time, resources, and sometimes a budget for advertising.

Example:

If you sell handmade jewelry, digital marketing might involve running Instagram ads, optimizing your website for search engines, and sending newsletters to your email subscribers.

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About Linda Bomba

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I am an affiliate marketer, entrepreneur and video marketing expert. In my spare time I am a avid movie buff, dog lover & Philadelphia Phillies & Eagles fan!