Why do people read product reviews? Just think about it . . . how often do you see the name of a new movie coming out and immediately go see it. Usually, you'll see a trailer and then, more often than not, you ask a friend or wait for a review. Someone's opinion carries more wait for you than the production company's ad. As it should; a testimonial can be a wonderful thing.

How do you choose other products you buy? You talk with your friends and family? You may not sit around talking with them about products to buy or movies to see, the subject is just casually mentioned in passing.

And that's the way we should be as affiliate marketers reviewing products. Talk to your visitors as though they are your friend... dropped by for a cup of coffee, and you mention how you feel about a certain product they might be interested in.

1) The first tip is to state the problem, as you see it, and introduce a possible solution for your friend the reader. No details, at least not here, just a recap of what you see as your friends problem. For example if you were having that coffee with your friend you might say, "hey, you know how you love mysteries? I read a great book I wanted to tell you about."

As an affiliate marketer you might say, "Don't you hate having to take handfuls of vitamins in order to get everything you need to stay strong and active? Are you looking for a great post menopausal multi-vitamin, which has everything you need in one pill? I just found one that has all the vitamins and nutrients most recommended for women going through menopause; including 1500 mgs of calcium."

Put yourself in place of your reader and try to determine what problem they might have that would send them looking for your product. Providing a graphic of the product helps your reader become more closely involved in the review.

2) Next, lay out what the product says it has to offer and answer the big question - does the product work. What promises do the manufacturers of the product make? Go to the product's sales page and look at the promises made about the product. Highlight them here and answer the question your reader wants to know - does the product do what it says it will do? Does it solve the problem listed in #1?

In order to complete this phase, you either need to have used the product or you need to read every review you can find and compile the information in order to give a fair and realistic review. You need to be able to explain what the product does and if it is faster, better, and/or more brilliant than the competition. And remember, there are no perfect products. There is always at least one thing you'd prefer was included or handled differently; mention that briefly as well.

3) And last but not least, give an recap of the information you just gave them and give a call to action. Give a summery of the results you'll receive from using this product and then give a value judgment. Is it more economical than the competitions version, is it expensive but worth it? Would you purchase this product yourself and have you?

Remember, making a purchase is an emotional decision. If you can appeal to your readers emotions, you will have better conversion rates. "These are vitamins made specifically for menopausal and post-menopausal women. It's reassuring to be able to take a simple supplement that provides for all the needs your body has at this important time in your life."

After you make your summery, tell them to click on the link provided and purchase the product now. There's something about a call to action that adds that last little incentive some need to get off the fence and take action.

Following the three tips listed above should give you a product review which will convert well and will provide a service for you customers. You're not just interested in making a sale today, you also want to build and maintain your reputation as a straight shooter.