If you’ve been trying to monetise your passion for running by posting affiliate product links online and feeling frustrated by the lack of results, you’re not alone. It’s a common trap that many aspiring online entrepreneurs fall into: relying on the hope that simply posting links will bring in revenue. The truth is, success in the digital space isn’t about scattering links and waiting for clicks—it’s about creating genuine value and building trust.
In this article, we’ll break down why the “product link” strategy falls short and explore a more effective approach to monetising your passion for running that aligns with authenticity, simplicity, and long-term growth.
The Problem with Posting Product Links
1. Trust Doesn’t Come from Links
When people click on your affiliate links, they aren’t doing it out of loyalty or trust—they’re doing it out of curiosity. Unless you’ve built a relationship with your audience, the chances of them making a purchase (and earning you a commission) are slim. Without trust, even the most enticing running shoe link will feel like noise in a crowded marketplace.
2. Lack of Unique Value
Anyone can post a product link. The question is: why should someone click yours? Simply sharing a link doesn’t differentiate you from the thousands of others promoting the same products. Today’s online audience craves personal recommendations, detailed reviews, or stories that show why a product is worth their time. Posting links without context offers no unique value.
3. It’s Transactional, Not Relational
Affiliate marketing in its simplest form is a transactional strategy: “Here’s a product—buy it.” While it might work occasionally, it doesn’t encourage repeat engagement or build a loyal audience. True monetisation comes from creating lasting relationships, not one-off clicks.
What Will Work: Building Authority and Connection
Instead of focusing on quick wins with product links, shift your mindset toward creating a platform that showcases your passion, knowledge, and experience in running. Here’s how to do it:
1. Focus on Authority Marketing
Authority marketing positions you as a trusted expert in your niche. Unlike affiliate marketing, which often revolves around products, authority marketing revolves around you. By sharing your unique perspective as a runner, you become the go-to source for others looking to improve their performance, explore gear, or simply stay motivated.
For example:
• Write blog posts about your personal experiences with specific products rather than just linking to them.
• Create content that answers the common questions runners have, such as “How do I choose the right shoes for long-distance runs?” or “What are the best hydration strategies for marathon training?”
• Share running tips that you’ve learned through trial and error, making your audience feel like they’re gaining insider knowledge.
When people see you as a valuable resource, they’re far more likely to trust your recommendations—and to return for more.
2. Share Your Story
Authenticity is your biggest asset. People are drawn to stories that resonate with their own experiences. If you’ve ever struggled to find the perfect running gear, battled through an injury, or balanced training with a busy schedule, share those moments. It’s these personal anecdotes that make your audience feel connected to you.
For example:
• Instead of posting, “Check out these running shoes [link],” you could write, “After struggling with knee pain for years, I discovered these shoes. Here’s why they worked for me [link].”
• Use your social media to share behind-the-scenes glimpses of your training, your challenges, and your triumphs.
When you tell a story, your audience doesn’t just see a product—they see how it can impact their lives, too.
3. Provide Genuine Value
The cornerstone of any successful online business is value. Your goal should be to help your audience solve a problem, answer a question, or achieve a goal. This could be through:
• Educational content: Write guides, create videos, or host webinars that teach runners something new, such as how to build a training plan or what to eat before a race.
• Community-building: Start a Facebook group or running challenge to connect with like-minded individuals. Once you’ve built a community, your recommendations will carry more weight.
• Resources: Develop free tools or downloads, such as a running log template or a checklist for race day essentials. These resources show your audience that you’re invested in their success.
Providing value doesn’t just attract an audience—it builds a loyal one.
Practical Steps to Get Started
1. Identify Your Audience
Who are you speaking to? Are they beginners looking for tips on starting their running journey, or experienced marathoners seeking advanced strategies? Knowing your audience will help you tailor your content and recommendations.
2. Create a Platform
Invest in a simple website or blog where you can house your content. Platforms like WordPress or Squarespace make it easy to get started. Focus on creating a clean, user-friendly space where visitors can learn about you, access your content, and engage with your recommendations.
3. Start Small with Content
Don’t overwhelm yourself by trying to post everywhere at once. Pick one or two platforms that align with your audience (e.g., Instagram for visuals or YouTube for tutorials) and start creating consistent, high-quality content.
4. Invest in Skills
If you’re unsure about the technical aspects of building a business, such as setting up a website or creating email campaigns, don’t let that stop you. There are countless resources and affordable courses that can guide you step-by-step. Remember: every runner starts as a beginner, and so does every entrepreneur.
5. Think Long-Term
Building an online business isn’t a sprint—it’s a marathon. Be prepared to invest time in creating content, engaging with your audience, and refining your strategy. The effort you put in now will pay dividends later.
Why This Approach Works
When you focus on authority and connection instead of transactions, you’re no longer competing in a crowded marketplace of faceless links. Instead, you’re building something far more valuable: trust. And with trust comes opportunities—not just for affiliate sales, but for partnerships, collaborations, and even your own product launches.
This approach also aligns with the mindset you’ve honed as a runner. Just as you wouldn’t expect to finish a marathon without consistent training, you shouldn’t expect to build a thriving online business without putting in the work. But with persistence, authenticity, and a focus on providing value, you’ll create a business that not only pays off but also fuels your passion for running.