Reduce hassle of refunds and warranties. Make it as easy as possible for customers to reach you when they have an issue with your product. You might have 24-hour voice mail or email access. Then have a representative call them first thing in morning. You can also reduce frustration by having clear refund and warranty policies.

If you lose a customer, consider it an opportunity! Consider why they stopped doing business with you and what you can do to ensure that same situation doesn't happen again. Customer feedback is one of best ways to help you improve your company's products and services.

5. Font - It's always tempting to experiment with myriad of font choices your computer offers, but don't get carried away. Some of those fonts are impossible to read. My advice is to stick with courier because it is easiest to read.

6. Stationary - Keep your direct sales piece looking classy with color stationary and good paper stock. Don't go for flimsy stuff just because it's cheaper. Your results will speak for themselves.

7. Envelope Size - Size really does matter when it comes to direct sales. Mail your letter in a 9 X 12 envelope and people will think they are getting something important.

8. Personal Touches - Address envelope by hand. It makes recipient of sales piece feel special and important because you took time to add that personal touch. Sales pitches come addressed by a computer, but a letter from a friend comes hand- addressed. Your prospects will be more likely to open a friendly letter than one they know contains a sales pitch.

It also helps to use a real stamp instead of a postage meter. Again, people will think you took time out to personally lick each stamp and place it on their envelope. It adds that personal touch that most sales pieces lack.