Yesterday I met an old friend from school -- I had not seen her for several years. We talked about the old times, our kids and families, and what we do now. To my surprise, I learned she has an online business with 35 employees and over $1,000,000 in annual sales. Not bad, eh?..."What's your secret?" I asked her. "Keep them coming back for more!" she replied.

That's easier said than done...Well, let's pretend you have a great product and a web site -- sales are through the roof and you drive a Porsche!...LOL! You wish! Most of us work hard to provide a great service and make some sales. Having satisfied customers is the key to success. A happy customer is a customer "coming back for more"! A happy customer will also promote your products or services to other people. And this, in the end, could be the secret to good life and fortune!

Relying just on drop in sales is never a good idea. As more and more people visit your business/website, you should not miss the opportunity to get them subscribe to your mailing (this is called an "opt-in list" -- the subscribers agree to receive mailings like newsletters or catalogs updates.) This is of great importance as it gives you the opportunity to send promotional materials to them and boost your sales or traffic. Remember, "keep them coming back for more!"

Now you have to build a loyal customer base from your opt-in list. But how can you achieve that? The main thing about a newsletter is it has to have value for the client. Otherwise, it will be deleted and the client will be gone.

So, when you create your newsletter, keep those tips in mind:

1. Provide information! Have good product knowledge and be passionate about your business.

2. Keep it simple! If you can't write it yourself, hire a professional! There are writers that will do a great job for a minimal fee. The investment may lead to more sign-ups and potential sales.

3. Use creativity in your promotional materials. Build around your product or service. For example, if you are selling home furnishings, insert some pictures of what is new in the house furnishing industry in your promotional mailings.

4. Research current treads in your field and keep one step ahead of the competition. Your clients will look forward to receiving your newsletter. Keep them happy with fresh, new things and ideas to share with them.

5. Keep an eye on the competition. Sign up to their newsletter and see what they are up to. Look out for cheaper prices, better customer service, newer products etc.

6. Offer special discounts for your products. Add eCoupons in your newsletters that will give your subscribers a special discount.

7. Hold special contest. Reward winners with bonus gifts. That way you will give your subscribers one more reason to stay on your mailing list.

8. Give away freebies! People love them and will spread the word! However, don't overdo it:-)

9. Add some entertainment value: a daily cartoon like business cartoons (http://www.etoon.com/ ) or newsletter cartoons (http://www.bettercartoon.com/) will do the job. People love humor and will spread the word!

10. Keep your subscribers happy and eager!