What is Affiliate Marketing? A Beginner’s Guide to Earning Money with Amazon, eBay, Etsy, and Hoanbox in 2025

affiliate marketing

A stay-at-home mom thriving in the digital age thanks to affiliate marketing

If you’re looking for a way to make money online without holding inventory or handling customer service, affiliate marketing might be the perfect option for you.

In this article, we’ll clearly explain what affiliate marketing is, how you can earn commissions, share commission rates from popular platforms, and guide you on where to place affiliate links effectively—even if you only have social media accounts and no website.

What is Affiliate Marketing?

Affiliate marketing is a method where you promote someone else’s product through a special tracking link (affiliate link). If someone clicks your link and makes a purchase, you earn a commission.

You don’t need to stock products, handle orders, or ship anything—your job is simply to promote the product effectively.

Affiliate Programs You Can Join:

Platform Popular Products Estimated Commission
Amazon Associates Home goods, tech, fashion… 1% – 10% (varies by category)
eBay Partner Network Collectibles, used goods, accessories 1% – 4%
Etsy Affiliate Program Handmade, creative products 4% – 8%
HoanBox Shirts, mugs, lamp… 25% commission per order

HoanBox is a brand with an easy-to-join affiliate program. When someone purchases a product through your link, you get 25% of the order value – much higher than most platforms.

Real-Life Example:

Let’s say you join HoanBox’s affiliate program and promote the Funny Cat Mug priced at $20. When someone buys through your link, you earn 25% × $20 = $5.

Where to Place Affiliate Links for Best Results?

If you don’t have a blog or website, no worries! You can start directly on social media. Here are some top platforms and strategies to help you succeed:

1. TikTok

-Create review or unboxing videos, or share usage tips.

-Example: “This cat mug is SO cute – every coffee lover needs it!”

-Place the affiliate link in your TikTok bio, or in the video description if eligible (1,000+ followers).

-Use Linktree or similar tools to bundle multiple links in one place.

2. Facebook

-Share your experience with the product or list your top picks.

-Add a call-to-action with the affiliate link like: “You can grab this shirt here – I used this link to get 25% cashback  [Affiliate link]”

-Post in relevant Facebook groups about fashion, gifts, or decor.

3. Pinterest

-Create attractive pins (or use product images).

-Craft an engaging title like: “Cute Cat Mug for Cat Lovers – Link in description!”

-Place the affiliate link directly in the destination link of your pin.

 Pinterest works especially well for visually appealing products like handmade goods, apparel, or prints.

4. Instagram

-Post stories with affiliate links (if your account qualifies).

-Add links in your bio or create a story highlight for affiliate content.

-Short, snappy reels (under 15 seconds) can go viral easily.

 Important Tips:

-Don’t spam your links, focus on real value, honest opinions, and attractive visuals.

-Be transparent: “This is an affiliate link. I may earn a small commission if you buy through it—at no extra cost to you!”

-Use link-shorteners or tools like Bit.ly, Linktree, Beacons to make your links cleaner and easier to share.

Conclusion

Affiliate marketing is a powerful and accessible way to make money online, even if you’re starting from scratch. With zero upfront cost, minimal risk, and the freedom to work from anywhere, it’s become one of the most popular income streams for creators, stay-at-home parents, and side hustlers alike. All you need is a bit of patience, the ability to choose the right products, and a willingness to share them in an authentic way.

If you’re already spending time on TikTok, Facebook, or Pinterest, you’re more prepared than you think. These platforms are perfect for sharing your favorite finds and building trust with your audience. And when you join affiliate programs like HoanBox, which offers a generous 25% commission, you’re not just recommending products—you’re creating a genuine income stream. In fact, many affiliates start earning within just a few weeks by simply promoting items they already love and believe in.

Whether you’re a full-time mom, a student, or just someone looking to earn extra cash, affiliate marketing gives you the flexibility to grow at your own pace—with the potential for real, sustainable income.

Want to get started? Sign up for HoanBox’s affiliate program here

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