Affiliates are individuals or businesses that promote products or services for another company, often in exchange for a commission on sales generated through their marketing efforts. They typically use various online platforms, such as websites or social media, to reach potential customers and drive traffic to the company's offerings. The affiliate marketing model benefits both parties: the company gains increased exposure and sales, while affiliates earn money for their promotional activities. This arrangement is common in industries like e-commerce, where companies like Amazon and eBay have established affiliate programs to expand their reach and boost revenue.