Scaling InterviewReady's Affiliate Program to $400K
InterviewReady
timeline
Q4 2023 - Q1 2024 (3 months)
tools
Figma
Google Analytics
Microsoft Clarity
Internal Company Dashboard
MY ROLE
Lead UX Designer
results
20% of total revenue ($400,000) generated through referrals in 2024
1 in 5 purchases now come through referral links
Successful transition from influencer-only to user-wide referral system
skills & Methods
User Research & Interviews
Data Analysis
UX/UI Design
User Flow Mapping
A/B Testing
Prototyping
Overview
InterviewReady had an existing referral system limited to partnered influencers. We saw an opportunity to democratize this system, making it accessible to all users while adding robust tracking capabilities. This case study details how we transformed our referral program from an exclusive feature to a community-driven growth engine.
Problem
While InterviewReady's influencer referral program was successful, we were leaving value on the table by not allowing our engaged user base to participate. Users were already organically sharing our platform, but without any way to track or reward these referrals.
Key Metrics
Only <5% of users (influencers) had access to referral capabilities
15% of our users were sharing links without compensation
Customer acquisition cost through traditional marketing: $200
Customer acquisition cost through influencer referrals: $50
Solution
We created an inclusive referral system that empowers every InterviewReady user to become an ambassador. The system features automated tracking, transparent earnings dashboard, and instant reward distribution, making it easy for users to share and earn while helping others succeed in their interview preparation.
Research
Conducted 15 interviews with active users
Analyzed data from existing influencer referral program
Surveyed 130 platform users
Competitive analysis of 5 platform’s referral systems
Persona
The Final Solution
Integrated Dashboard A dedicated section in the main dashboard showing real-time referral statistics, earnings, and sharing tools. This placement ensures high visibility and easy access.
Automatic Link Conversion Any content shared from the platform automatically includes the user's referral attribution, removing friction from the sharing process.
Real-Time Analytics Transparent tracking of referrals, conversions, and earnings with detailed analytics for users to optimize their sharing strategy.
Automated Payments Implementation of an automatic payment system that processes earnings once certain thresholds are met, reducing administrative overhead.
Success Metrics
Aftermath & Retrospective
Learnings
Start small but design for scale
Transparency builds trust and encourages participation
Automation is key to program sustainability
Regular feedback loops improve user engagement
Integration into existing workflows increases adoption
Next Steps
Enhanced Analytics
Implement advanced tracking features
Add performance benchmarking
Develop predictive earnings forecasts
Community Features
Create ambassador community platform
Implement tiered rewards system
Develop ambassador training resources
Technical Improvements
Optimize payment processing
Enhance mobile experience
Implement A/B testing framework
