An Affiliate Manager isn't just a 'board whore' -they need to know the business, have communication skills, know how to build loyalty and have some 'field' experience and in that I mean they need to know what an affiliate faces daily.
Here's a scenario:: A person can make 50-60k on their network with minimal supervision and see getting a job working for a program as an opportunity. They could be earning 30k + commissions (which that alone can = 100k) + some have benefits, bonuses, ability to make connections they wouldn't with their own network + get to go to all shows for the company (at not cost to them). Not every Affiliate Rep is/was a failure in their own attempt. Just FYI.
LB-69, in your particular case, if you plan on sticking to the same niche, you are best off hiring one of your top 10 affiliates (allow them to maintain what they are doing on their own time and let them help others with their expertise). They would know the target market and be helpful to your affiliates. If your plan is to move onto other niches, then get someone who knows your primary niche well and smart enough to apply the same base theory to other niches.
By offering a good base + commission setup you are going to keep them motivated to find affiliates like themselves. They'll better sell your product and help your other affiliates more (cuz they will make more with better affiliates). The more incentive your Affiliate Manager has, the harder they work & the more motivated they are.
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