One of traditions I like at this time of year is remembering all people that were there for me this past year. Especially those that didn't receive anything in return for it -- in smallest or largest way.

Meaningful gift giving does not have to be expensive. In fact, some of most precious gifts are ones that cost very little, but mean a great deal because of time and effort it took to select, or create, and mail.

Here are eight ideas I have used over last few years. You can use these as Christmas gifts; add them to your "leave-behind" marketing package, a referral thank you, or "thanks for helping me" gift.

It does make a difference if your logo or advertising information is on gift. It does affect perceived value on their part and can make a difference in your relationship. Make choice to add your information or leave it off with their perception in mind. Remember, marketing is all perception and not product or service.

1. Purchase discontinued note card sets from Hallmark and other card shops during year. If you call and ask your nearest store as to time of year when they discount "previous season" items, they will gladly tell you. You can save from 50% to 75% on these items.

2. Create a logo candy jar. You can purchase candy jars with different seasonal markings. Then create a stencil with your company logo or web site address (I prefer web site address). You can buy stencil supplies and empty candy jars at your local craft store like MJ Design, Michaels, or online. They sometimes have mailing boxes to match. Add a bow with your business card. Keep jar nice so they want to keep it out in open for that season. Jars for Easter season are great with miniature eggs in them and are not likely to get completing jars from other suppliers. After dinner mints are great for contents. If you return frequently, bring a refill with you.

First a little history. The guys who started internet marketing were all either successful direct marketers or people who learned from successful direct marketers. Direct marketing is marketing through mail, catalogs, infomercials, etc.

Ask any direct marketer or any internet marketer who has gotten REAL results what most important part of marketing is. They will ALL tell you it's list, list, list. In internet marketing this means YOUR opt-in e-mail list for your ezine or newsletter.

The larger your list grows, more targeted customers you have to market to for rest of your life. If you're not building a list then you're wasting your time trying to market on internet. The BIG PICTURE is more than one sale to one customer.

The ONLY purpose of an EFFECTIVE (money making) website is to capture e-mail addresses of targeted people who are interested in what you are selling. Why? Because most first time visitors to a site DO NOT BUY. Because you want customers for life, not customers for one sale and then bye-bye.

If you want to create good customers you have to earn their business. The only way to earn it is to follow up with them, let them get to know you and give them VALUABLE information for free. People buy from people and businesses they trust and trust can't be created from a one time visit.