Why should I remember you? The moment I finish paying your invoice, you're the least important person in my life. I have a dozen other things to deal with -- more phone calls, employee problems, salesmen who want to meet with me (and sell me their products instead of yours). Such is life. And I'm a firm believer that, the moment I get off the phone with a customer, I'm the least important person in that customer's life (no matter how valuable my services may be). Use direct mail to keep in touch and to keep your name in front of your customers. It doesn't always matter what you mail ... sometimes the simpler the better. When money's tight I recommend a postcard. It can be a short and sweet message -- "Haven't heard from you in a while ... is there anything you need from us?" or an announcement about a special service. The message is actually less important than getting some message out on a regular basis. Your objective is to get your name in front of your customers. Keep reminding them that you're still around and you still want their business. It pays off well. Recommended frequency: monthly. Approximate cost per customer: $6/year based on 12 mailings.