I used this method a couple years ago, but with gaming offers. Made a couple grand over the course of 2 or 3 months. But Billy is right -- this is not a sustainable and long-term business. It's a quick and dirty way to drum up capital.
For those of you struggling to get approved by CPA networks -- you have to appear credible. Slap up a company website. And when your affiliate manager calls -- play it cool and speak their language.
Don't apply ONLY to AWM -- there are literally dozens of CPA networks out there. Some of them pay more attention than others. If you're running crappy traffic (and you will be) and the leads aren't backing out -- some networks will just look the other way.
I used Indeed to post the job opportunity. I haven't been over there in a couple years -- I imagine they've tightened the screws a bit -- to protect against guys like us. But there are a ton of websites out there where you can post for free.
As far as CTR and getting your 'applicants' to take action? You need to QUALIFY them every step of the way. This will build anticipation and desire. In your posting, say things like "need to be a self-starter", "seeking the right candidate", "computer must be up to specifications", etcetera.
Here's something else -- don't automate. Personalize. Put their name on your email reply. Compliment them on their application, initiative, resume, whatever.
Last thing: Don't send everyone to your offer. Choose only the stupid ones. Choose the applicants with poor grammar and spelling, with no punctuation or capitalization. Choose the resumes of people whose only experience is bagging groceries... If you send the affiliate link to a guy who worked as a programmer for Google -- what do you expect? He's going to see right through you.
Bottom line: This hustle (and every other hustle) requires smarts, imagination, and adaptability. And god love ya -- most of you don't have those traits, so you haven't a prayer.
But good luck!