Affiliate marketers track conversions from their ads through various methods, including:
Affiliate Tracking Links: Affiliates are provided with unique tracking links by the affiliate program or network. These links contain identifiers that track the source of the click and associate it with the affiliate.
Cookies: Tracking cookies are often used to monitor user activity. When a potential customer clicks on an affiliate link, a cookie is placed on their device. If the user makes a purchase within the cookie's lifespan, the affiliate is credited for the conversion.
Pixel Tracking: Some affiliate programs use tracking pixels or codes on the merchant's website. When a user completes a desired action (like making a purchase), the pixel triggers and reports back to the affiliate system.
Sub-ID Tracking: Affiliates can use sub-IDs or parameters in their tracking links to add extra details. This helps them identify which specific campaigns, channels, or strategies are driving conversions.
Conversion Pixels: Similar to tracking pixels, conversion pixels are placed on the merchant's confirmation or thank-you page. When a user reaches that page after clicking an affiliate link, the conversion is tracked.
These methods enable affiliates to monitor the effectiveness of their campaigns, optimize their strategies, and ensure they receive proper credit for the conversions they drive. It's important for affiliates to understand the tracking mechanisms of the programs they're working with to accurately gauge their performance.