Some ezine publishers are using their confirmation message to set up a double opt-in, requiring a new subscriber to physically respond that they wanted subscription. Done by requiring a return email or click through, this has become an effective way to offset spam complaints and unauthorized sign-ups.

B - (B)enefits They'll Receive From Their Purchase or Free Subscription

After a transaction, confirmation letter should reiterate benefits of signing up or purchasing a service or product. Reinforce this positive action by reminding a customer of value they will be receiving (this also underscores their perception of you as a quality merchant).

C - (C)larifying Terms Of Product Delivery

If product is digital, and will be delivered sequentially (like an ezine or mini-course) confirmation letter will remind customer or prospect how often to expect an installment (daily, weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, quarterly). A gentle reminder makes for good customer relations, and, again, cuts down on potential accusations of spamming.

If product is available immediately, confirmation should reconfirm that it is digital, available through instant download, and then give clear instructions on steps involved. Not everyone is a download veteran; you can't assume that they'll know what to do. Head off any potential frustration with step-by-step instructions. To those that need this extra help, you'll be an instant hero.

By keeping it personal, anticipating requests and questions, and by extending professional courtesy, you will be on right track to forging a strong online relationship with your customers -- ultimately leading to a smoother and more profitable online experience for everyone involved.

======================================== Paula Morrow heads http://www.idealmarketingcorp.com She specializes in public relations, information marketing and creating cashflow systems. Her newsletter, IDEALProfits, is now read in 12 countries. Subscribe and receive 5 BONUS ebooks! http://www.idealmarketingcorp.com/subscribe.html ======================================

While your individual products may never see light of day in search engine rankings - your front page and your category headings will. In this way, you have a site which is shopper and search engine friendly.

Shannan Hearne-Fortner is president and wizard of http://www.SuccessPromotions.com, an internet marketing information and service company. Part author, poet, mother, WAHM, and wizard, Shannan is marketing manifestation of Guerilla marketing techniques from Jay Conrad Levinson, One-to-One Marketing, grass roots campaign development and internet wizardry combined with Eastern-Western philosophies of such gurus as Deepak Chopra, Shakti Gawain, and Alan Watts. Seasoned with thoughts of theological greats like Billy Graham and WAHM oriented authors like Priscilla Huff. Her marketing experience contains over ten years of online and off-line campaign development for products and services ranging from alarms to pottery, software to hardware, jewelry to clothing, consulting to designing, and everything in between. Always insightful, often humorous, and occasionally downright delightful.