Why Brilliant Directories chose FirstPromoter
Built for modern SaaS subscriptions
They had used another tool for years, which worked fine for simple one-time purchases but struggled with a modern SaaS model based on subscriptions, free trials and long-term customer value. The interface felt dated and complex and customizing commissions or branding the experience was more limited than they wanted.
They were looking for something built for subscription businesses, with better reporting, automation and flexibility. FirstPromoter gave them cleaner handling of recurring revenue and one-time transactions, along with more control over branding and commission structures at a reasonable cost, so the switch felt natural.
Results
Brilliant Directories’ results with FirstPromoter
Brilliant Directories shared that within the first few months, they started to see more consistent affiliate signups and a clear lift in affiliate-driven trial signups and new customers.
They also highlighted how FirstPromoter’s flexible commission options allowed them to design a recurring commission structure that affiliates are genuinely excited to promote. Combined with built-in onboarding tools and welcome email sequences, it became much easier to nurture new affiliates and keep them engaged.
Key Tips
Advice for businesses starting an affiliate program
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Treat it like a real growth channel
An affiliate program should be treated like any other growth channel: it needs clear goals, ongoing attention and a compelling offer.
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Give affiliates a real reason to promote you
Affiliates must have a strong reason to promote you over competitors and the many other products they could recommend.
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Start small and invest in relationships
Start small, invest in relationships and focus on real partnerships rather than just handing out links.
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Turn customers into affiliates
Don’t overlook existing customers, since they already trust the product. Turning those customers into “customer-affiliates” and rewarding them for spreading the word has been one of the most authentic and effective tactics.
Insights
More insights from Brilliant Directories
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How do you recruit affiliates?
First, a dedicated landing page on their website clearly explains how the program works, who it is for and what the commission structure and benefits look like. Second, they promote the program to existing customers under a simple “refer a friend” framing — many customers don’t see themselves as affiliates, but are open to recommending a tool they trust when it feels like helping a friend and earning a reward.
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Do you use any specific tactics to onboard and activate affiliates?
They use FirstPromoter’s trigger emails to send a structured onboarding sequence to every new affiliate, with clear next steps, ready-made assets and encouragement to start promoting quickly. They also assign a dedicated “Affiliate Concierge” who personally supports affiliates with questions, custom tracking links and promotional ideas.
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What are the most important metrics you are following?
New affiliate sign-ups and the split between standalone affiliates and existing customers who become affiliates, plus the return rate and long-term value of referred customers. They also track clicks and conversions from affiliates’ landing pages, blog posts and newsletters.
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Which features have been the most helpful for your affiliate program?
The API stands out — it lets them deeply integrate FirstPromoter into their custom payment flow so tracking, attribution and commission logic match their SaaS model. Trigger emails and flexible campaign settings round out a more polished, automated program.
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Did you try other affiliate management platforms? If so, why weren’t they right for you?
They used ShareASale for many years. It worked for simple one-time purchases, but wasn’t built around recurring SaaS subscriptions, free trials and long-term customer value and customizing commissions or branding was limited.