When it comes to Web hosting, there's more than one way to build a channel. At least that's how Interland sees it.
Late last month, the Atlanta-based hosting aggregator launched a referral-oriented Affiliate Program that enables Web site operators and online marketers to benefit financially by recommending the company's services. The program, which is part of Interland's overall channel strategy, awards affiliates up to $2,000 in cash for each qualified dedicated hosting customer they send along.
"Interland's high level of customer and technical support and constant professionalism is something I want other Web site operators to know about and experience," said Bob Jameson, owner and operator of Alaska Hunting Guides and Outfitters, a new affiliate. "I am proud to display the %85 banner on my Web sites because I've enjoyed doing business with them."
Affiliates receive $150 in cash for each qualified visitor they send to Interland who orders an eligible shared hosting account.
The program is designed to open the company's indirect-sales efforts to organizations that might not wish to pursue formal relationships with end-user customers, said Tiffani Bova, Interland's vice president of sales and channel programs. "The program gives partners flexibility on how they want to interact with us and how they want to interact with their customers," Bova said. "It enables a variety of partners to partner with us in a variety of different ways."
Interland provides everything necessary to become an affiliate,all participants have to do is sign up and select banners or text links they wish to display, she said.
Existing Interland customers who want to become affiliates can earn up to $50 in free service for each shared hosting referral.
Steve Oldham, president of Interland reseller Oldham Consulting, Cumming, Ga., said new affiliates would round out the Interland channel nicely. "We view Interland and its support staff as an extension of our company," he said. "When looking at the big picture as a full-service provider, Interland's reseller program provides us with everything we need to grow."
