How to Set Up Your Affiliate Marketing Platform (Without Being Tech-Savvy)

Starting affiliate marketing doesn't mean you need to become a web developer. With modern tools, anyone—even beginners with no technical skills—can build an effective online presence to promote affiliate products. This guide will show you step-by-step how to set up your affiliate marketing platform without the tech overwhelm.

Step 1: Decide on Your Content Strategy

Your affiliate marketing platform revolves around content. Before choosing tools or platforms, decide how you want to create content:

• Blogging: Best for long-form articles, SEO traffic, and written reviews.

• YouTube: Great for product reviews, tutorials, and face-to-camera content.

• Social media (Instagram, TikTok, Pinterest): Ideal for short-form, visual, and mobile-first content.

Pick the content format that best fits your strengths and interests.

Step 2: Choose a Platform That Matches Your Strategy

Here are beginner-friendly options:

For Blogging:

• WordPress with Bluehost or SiteGround: Industry standard for full control and flexibility.

• Wix or Squarespace: Drag-and-drop builders, perfect for non-tech users.

• Substack or Medium: Free, simple platforms if you don’t want to manage a full website.

For YouTube:

• You only need a Google account to get started.

• Use your phone or basic camera.

• Use free video editing apps like CapCut, Canva Video, or iMovie.

For Instagram or Pinterest:

• Simply set up a free business account.

• Use free design tools like Canva to create high-quality graphics.

Step 3: Create a Simple Website or Profile

Even if you're using social media or YouTube, having a simple website helps:

• Looks professional

• Builds trust

• Lets you collect emails

• Gives you a central hub for your content

Minimum website structure:

• Homepage: Who you are and what your site is about

• Blog or content page

• Affiliate disclosures (FTC compliant)

• About and contact pages

Use drag-and-drop builders or pre-made templates to launch quickly.

Step 4: Sign Up for Affiliate Programs

Join affiliate programs that match your niche. Start with easy-to-join networks:

• Amazon Associates: Low barrier, huge variety of products.

• ShareASale, CJ Affiliate, Rakuten: Many merchants in one place.

• ClickBank: Digital products with high commissions.

• Individual programs: Search “your niche + affiliate program” on Google.

Step 5: Create Your First Content

Now you’re ready to start promoting:

For Blogs:

• Write product reviews, comparisons, how-to guides.

• Include affiliate links naturally.

• Optimize for keywords using tools like Ubersuggest.

For YouTube:

• Make tutorials, unboxings, or best-of lists.

• Add affiliate links in the video description.

For Pinterest or Instagram:

• Share product photos or short videos.

• Link to affiliate products using Linktree or a blog.

Step 6: Set Up Basic Analytics and Email Collection

Even without technical skills, tracking and email marketing are easy:

• Use Google Analytics or Jetpack on WordPress.

• Use MailerLite, ConvertKit, or Mailchimp to collect emails.

• Add a signup form on your homepage or use a popup.

Why collect emails? Because you don’t control social media or search algorithms. An email list is yours forever.

Step 7: Focus on Consistency Over Perfection

Don’t let perfectionism hold you back. Your first videos or posts won’t be perfect—and that’s okay. What matters most is:

• Posting consistently

• Engaging with your audience

• Learning as you go

Final Tips for Non-Techies

• Use templates: Whether it’s a blog post outline or a Canva graphic.

• Watch tutorials: YouTube has how-tos for every tool you’ll need.

• Join beginner-friendly communities: Reddit, Facebook groups, or forums.

• Outsource if needed: Hire on Fiverr or Upwork for one-off tasks.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need to be a tech wizard to start affiliate marketing. Choose the right tools, follow a simple plan, and stay consistent. With patience and effort, your platform will grow—and so will your income. Next, we’ll talk about how to actually get people to see your content.

To learn more about Affiliate marketing, check out this FREE information video.

This post contains affiliate links. If you click and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.