[Linda Buquet]

Also when writing pre-sell content focus on BENEFITS not features.
Now that goes without saying and everybody says it - but here is what I mean.

The merchant copy may be filled with specs and tech info. Thin about WHY the person would want to buy it and what problems it could solve for the consumer. Many merchants don't do this well so it can be an opportunity for affiliates to shine.

GREAT EXAMPLE: IF you are an affiliate for a fishing store -
you are not JUST selling fishing poles, rods, reels and tackle...
You are also selling relaxation, excitement and competitive success.

Making up some BOGUS lines just for an example.

"Imagine how you'll feel kicking back with this rig in your hands."
"Remember how exciting it was to catch your 1st fish?"
"Want to catch more fish than your buddies?"

Not great examples off the top of my head, but think about how if you put yourself in the users shoes and talked about the EMOTIONS that go with the product, how much more compelling it would be. Then you expand on the subject line and write a whole paragraph about that aspect about the enjoyment of owning the product.

Another similar technique is to help the person visualize already owning it.
"So you're tired after work and decide to hit your favorite fishing hole for a little R&R before dusk. The other guys aren't having any luck, but you decide to give it a try anyway. You decide to try out your new XYZ rod and reel with the ABC jig. Imagine how it feels when your 3rd cast you snag a 16 lb bass! Can you picture the look of envy on all the other fisherman's faces?"

What I did was just write a little fiction, I made up a little story and it took me less than 30 seconds. Put yourself in the users shoes and start writing. I didn't even think about purposely adding keywords, they came naturally because I was writing for the user, not search engines. Now if I went back and proofed my copy, tweaked some keywords it would be better.

This is one of the main reasons I suggest affiliates start with a niche they know about, are familiar with and hopefully passionate about. It's much easier to write content if you know what you are talking about. I could not have quickly whipped up those fishing lines if I didn't love fishing and had never been. I could have researched to come up with some ideas. But so much easier if you've experienced it yourself.

DISCLAIMER - the above examples are not the only or best ways to write content, just a couple ideas and food for thought.