Affinity Marketing: Buy to Give

When selecting the affinity-marketing partner, make sure its products/services fall in the "everyday, commonly used" category (e.g., long-distance and wireless phone service, Internet service, credit cards, insurance, etc.). Inquire about how often new products, upgrades and/or special promotions are offered, and how the company's products are priced compared to competitive products/services. In addition to being brand-name products/services offering valued performance features, the products/services should be backed by strong warranties and sound customer-service policies.