Grow Your Biz: From eBay and Beyond

1. Make your emails interesting. You're an expert in whatever it is that you sell. Share your expertise in an email newsletter with short items like tips about caring for or using your products, answers to frequently asked questions, or customer success stories. Also ask customers to submit their own ideas for newsletter content. Include a mix of promotion (sales and event announcements, coupons, free samples, VIP specials, sneak peeks at new merchandise, etc.) with informational or educational content that's valuable to your readers.

2. Ask permission. Ask buyers for permission to add their names to your email marketing list and offer a way for them to unsubscribe. (It's not just polite -- it's federal law.)

3. Send consistently. Stay in touch with customers and prospects with monthly email marketing promotions and newsletters.

4. Ask for forwards. Happy customers are your best salespeople. They can help build your business through referral sales and viral marketing. Ask them to forward your email to people who may be interested in your products.

5. Archive your newsletter. Make past issues of your communications available on your Web site (or through your email marketing service). Posting your past content can help build your rankings with natural search engine marketing.

These strategies can help share your expertise and encourage repeat business and differentiate your eBay or other e-business.