Clicking an affiliate link?

[Jordan]

I'm curious to understand what would cause a person to click an affiliate link. I know whenever my mouse hovers over a link and I see some tiny hint of affiliation, I'll stop. I won't click the link and then I'll retype the URL in my browser just to avoid that affiliate link.

I was thinking about this today (and considering a blog on it) and I wondered why I did that. If the blog, website, thread or whatever was good enough to make me want to go to that URL and see that product, why shouldn't I click that link and give the rightful owners credit? After all, they did use their time to right the review, article or post.

How do these links make you feel? What causes you to click or not to click these links? What if I posted this link: Blogging For Dummies (For Dummies (Computer/Tech)) - will you click it? (Don't worry, it is just an Amazon affiliate link and I won't earn any money unless you actually purchase that product).

[WingedPanther]

I didn't click... mainly because "Blogging for Dummies" doesn't interest me.

[Jordan]

If you would of clicked it, it would of taken you to an invalid URL. What about affiliate links that do interest you though? Do you click or do you do as I've done?

[WingedPanther]

Generally, I don't notice affiliate links (since they usually aren't part of the article's content).

[Xav]

I hate clicking on affiliate links or even adverts. Maybe I am just jealous.

[Jordan]

Generally, I don't notice affiliate links (since they usually aren't part of the article's content).

What about if you are reading about some great new book, or some fantastic new technology and it has a link for more information right in the text that, do you click it without thinking about the affiliation?

[WingedPanther]

If it's of interest, I'll click for more information, regardless of affiliate or not.

[Lop]

I think its just curiosity. But, if the url ends up being invalid. I usually go to google and search the url

[John]

If I find a link to be interesting and I notice it is an affiliate link I will retype the URL as well - just because I am a stingy bastard.

[xXHalfSliceXx]

I am usually cool with AL's. But i hate the ones that pop up this HUGE window that you almost cant get around.