As affiliate marketers, we're fortunate in that we don't have as many'Achilles heels'  as the merchants who own and deliver the products wepromote for them.  Both our investments and our risks tend to be lower. 
However, we do have one significant 'weak' spot, and that's in howfar we can go in improving 'the offer'. There are certain things wesimply can't do. For example, we don't have the authority to offerdiscounts or deliver upgrades.

But, this 'weakness' doesn'tmean we're stuck with 'weak offers'!   In fact, I can think of at least5 ways to improve any offer, and really send our sales soaring:

1. Increase The PERCEPTION of Value -

Thereal value of any product is always in the customer's mind, and you canincrease that perception in dozens of ways.  For example, you guide thecustomer through a comparison of similar products, while pointing outwhy the one you're promoting is really the best deal for the money.

2. Demonstrate the Immediate Benefits -

Showthe customer how they can put the product to use from the moment theybuy it. You should already own your own copy of most of the productsyou promote. So, create a tutorial or some way of showcasing theresults you've gotten from the product.

3. Give More of Yourself On a Personal Level -

Similarto Step 2 ? There's always added value in social proof. Discuss yourown experience surrounding the questions, problems and ultimatesolutions in regards to the product at hand. Empathize with thecustomer's position and point out the things you share in common.

4. Put Them At Ease -

Yourrelationship to the merchant should enable you to give the customer asense of security in making the purchase. Let them know about theproduct's guarantee and/or refund policy. Let them know the transactionis secure. You want to remove as much of the risk as possible from thepurchase.

5. Provide Additional Incentives -

Checkwith the merchant first to make sure you're allowed to do this. Itsusually no problem when you're promoting things like e-books,membership sites, etc.. You can really sweeten up an offer when you addyour own products to the mix. E.g., ?order this e-book, and I'll throwin a free copy of this other product over here..?

So, you see,all it takes is a little creativity to add value to any affiliateoffer. Use the 5 steps and you may even blow the merchant's offer clearout of the water!