How to run a successful affiliate program?

Hey all,

I'm looking to start an affiliate program for my developer tool project https://www.inspectflow.io, I'm thinking to create a new page/form on my marketing website where people can apply to be affiliates and then I can review the applications.

Are there risks with running an affiliate program ? could this somehow hurt my branding if someone starts to advertise my product in a different way ?

Looking to get any tips! Thank you