This move cannot be skipped. Before you even consider applying for affiliate programs, you must have a fully functional website. If your blog lacks content, you will not only have an audience, but you will also have no hope of being accepted by an affiliate manager.
This is where I started and I can say there is a lot of opportunity in this niche. As you choose a niche, one thing to keep in mind is the long-term popularity of that niche.

While the Amazon Associates program’s commission rates may not be the highest, but there is undoubtedly room to earn. The standard commission runs between 6-10% depending on the items. However, this can quickly add up, especially if promoting higher ticket items such as electronics or appliances.
People become successful in affiliate marketing by approaching the problem from a number of different angles. For example, some are great writers while others are comedians or pundits. Some give relatively uncontroversial advice to people via video or blog. Others take a hard stance against a hot button issue in the media to build up their audience.