Increase your income through back-end sales and upselling.

[Myrin New]

One of the most essential Internet marketing strategies is to develop every customer's lifetime value. At least 36 percent of people who have purchased from you once will buy from you again if you follow up with them. Closing that first sale is by far the most difficult part -- not to mention the most expensive. So use back-end selling and upselling to get them to buy again:

1. Offer products that complement their original purchase.
2. Send out electronic loyalty coupons they can redeem on their next visit.
3. Offer related products on your "Thank You" page after they purchase.
4. Reward your customers for their loyalty, and they'll become even more loyal.

The internet changes so fast that one year online equals about five years in the real world. But the principles of how to start and grow a successful online business haven't changed at all. You are sticking to this sequence if you're starting a small business online. If you've been online awhile, do a quick review and see if there's a step you're neglecting or never got around to doing in the first place. You can't go wrong with the basics.