Where to start in the community: a reading path for newcomers
FreeSpy · 2026-10-07
Methods
There are different methods for working with paid ads and e-commerce. The most common are:
- Dropshipping: Selling products without keeping inventory. The focus is on driving traffic to the store and letting the supplier handle delivery.
- Affiliates: Promoting other people’s products in exchange for a commission. It’s a good way to get started without a large investment.
- COD (Cash on Delivery): A model that lets customers pay upon delivery. It’s popular in some countries and can increase the conversion rate.
Among these methods, choose one that aligns with your resources and skills. If you have capital, dropshipping could be a good option. If not, starting with affiliates may be safer.
Goals
Set clear, measurable goals. Use the SMART methodology (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound). For example:
- Increase website traffic by 30% over the next 3 months.
- Generate R$5.000 in sales in the first month of operation.
Setting goals helps you stay focused and measure results. Monitor each campaign and adjust as needed.
COD
The COD payment model is appealing, but it has its own quirks. Consider:
- Countries with high acceptance: Like India and some parts of Eastern Europe. Test the model in markets where it’s more widely accepted.
- Marketing strategies: Use ads that emphasize the security and convenience of paying upon delivery. This can increase consumer trust.
Keep in mind that COD can lead to higher return rates. Be prepared to deal with that in your strategy.
Countries
The country you choose to operate in directly impacts your project’s success. Research:
- Demographics: Get to know the target audience in each region.
- Consumer culture: Understand how people shop and what their preferences are.
- Competition: Assess how saturated the market is. Emerging markets may offer more opportunities, but also more challenges.
Swipe
Using the swipe format (or a “swipe file”) is essential for learning from the best. Create a collection of ads that caught your attention. Look at:
- Structure: How are they presented? What visual and text elements are used?
- CTA (Call to Action): How do they encourage users to take action?
- Targeting: Which target audiences are they trying to reach?
Use this analysis to create your campaigns. FreeSpy can be a useful ad spy tool for understanding what’s working in the market.
Which method has gotten you the best results so far? Share the numbers!