Whether you're starting out working at home or are already running a business, getting and keeping customers is one of the biggest challenges. It's important to let faithful customers know that you have not forgotten them and entice new ones to try your product or service. Here are seven tips to help you connect with customers.

1. Have a "happening."

If you have a home business, invite your regular customers (or those you hope will become regulars) to a breakfast, lunch or dinner at a local diner or restaurant (they pay) and schedule yourself or another expert as a speaker.

2. Do "preferred customer" mailings.

Send "We appreciate your business" cards with product samples or discount coupons.

Have a special sale just for valued customers.

3. Highlight your expertise.

Offer to give a talk at a customer's group or organization. Send out a regular newsletter with practical tips your customer can use.

Let your customers and community know if during the summer you attended a convention or workshop, or updated your technology, and how your additional knowledge or equipment will improve your service or product.

4. Get personal.

Personally answer your telephones as often as you can.

Encourage customers' calls if they have questions or problems.

Keep a database on each customer, what they bought, a few personal notes, their birth dates, and other information that you can note in conversation or mailings. It lets them know you are interested in them as individuals.

5. Develop a new customer-feedback method.

Include an evaluation card with each billing or receipt.

Send "Thank you for doing business with us" cards with a return postcard to suggest additional products or services you could provide.

6. State your principles.

Send out a pledge stating that you offer fair prices, superior quality, customer service and guaranteed satisfaction.

7. Make that extra effort.

Announce extra or more convenient hours, free pickup and delivery or a new service or product.

Keep in touch all year with your customers. Being enthusiastic about your business and your customers will demonstrate how much you like them and what you do. This will help to ensure customers' repeat business as well as making loyal customers out of your new ones.