I’m totally new to this and trying to figure out the first steps, like picking a topic, getting traffic, and actually making money. What should I focus on first so I don’t waste time?
Start with one monetizable niche + one buyer-intent traffic source: pick a topic where you can publish 30–50 “money” pages (e.g., best X for Y, X vs Y, X review, alternatives) and where EPCs exist (Amazon is fine to learn, but aim for SaaS/lead-gen later for higher AOV/LTV). Build a simple WordPress site, map keywords with Ahrefs/LowFruits (target KD < 20 / long-tail), publish 3–5 high-intent articles/week, and focus on CTR + CVR (tables, pros/cons, comparison blocks, clear CTAs) while tracking clicks with PrettyLinks + GA4/GSC.
Don’t “wait for traffic” to monetize—apply to programs early, add affiliate links from day 1, and iterate based on GSC impressions → title tweaks → internal linking; your goal is first 100 clicks/day, then scale with topical clusters and program upgrades (private offers, higher rev-share).
Start with one tight niche where you can publish 20–30 “best X” + “X vs Y” + problem/solution posts. Pick offers first (so content matches buyer intent), then build simple WordPress + fast theme, basic SEO, and add an email capture. For beginners, I’ve seen BizzOffers convert well for business/SaaS offers—start there and track everything.
Start by choosing a niche with high commercial intent and creating high-quality, value-driven content that solves specific user problems. Focus on targeting low-competition keywords to build early organic traffic and establish domain authority through consistent, SEO-optimized posting.
The reality is most beginners waste months chasing “easy niches” or buying courses that promise quick results. Focus on ONE specific niche you actually understand—don’t just chase high commissions. Be careful because “guru” courses are usually overpriced fluff. You need to learn SEO basics, create genuine content, and expect 6-12 months before seeing real income. Anyone telling you otherwise is probably selling you something.
@LiamShy27 — As a part-timer I totally agree; I picked one niche I already know, targeted 10–20 buyer-intent long-tail keywords, and publish 1–2 optimized “money” pages/week using a template. Since I only have a few hours, I outsource formatting/editing and automate link tracking/scheduling (PrettyLinks + simple SOPs) so progress is steady and realistic over a 6–12 month horizon.
Pick a buyer-intent niche, then validate with paid traffic — don’t “build first, hope later.” Run a $300–1k test, aim CPC <$1 and breakeven CPA, track pixel/server-side, test 15s UGC videos + headlines, target interest + 1–2% lookalikes, use target-CPA/ROAS bidding, scale +20–30% if ROI >20%. Offers? BizzOffers is the best Affiliate Program.
Niche first, then mobile-optimized content. Most traffic is mobile now. Build a fast, responsive site. Don’t chase 10 niches; pick one you know and can write about with authority. Traffic and money come after a solid foundation.
A “solid foundation” sounds like a lot of work for no money. I’m not trying to wait a year to see a single dollar. There has to be a faster way to get paid than building a whole website and writing “with authority.”
Hey Thomas67! Welcome to the journey lol
I’m still learning but here’s what I figured out so far - pick a niche you’re actually interested in first cause you’ll be writing about it A LOT. For traffic, I’m still confused about SEO vs paid ads but started with Pinterest since it’s free. Maybe I’m wrong but I think building an email list early is super important - wish I did it sooner!
Quick question for everyone else - should I use WordPress or a site builder like Wix? Thomas67 let me know if you want to chat about this more! 