How to show affiliates the product sells?

I'm releasing a product on CB and from what I've read I need to prove to affiliates that the product will sell and the material will convert. I assume that affiliates will see this information via the gravity and sales info on the CB product listing in marketplace, correct? So when I'm promoting my product, should I use a hop-link as if I were an affiliate for my own product or does CB update the stats based on sales going through CB payment processor?

Are there any other specific things I need to do to attract affiliates?

Most people buy media, and demonstrate the product sells. You can use PPC or PPV networks or whatever. As long as you have some data it's pretty easy to convince people of the money they can make promoting your product. So, the answer to your question is "sell it first," then get the affiliates.