New customers are great, and repeat customers are even better.  How many of your customers return after that first sale?

Perhaps the best piece of advice on generating repeat business is to approach each sale as the opportunity to gain a long-term customer.  These five steps provide a good starting point.

1. Don't overpromise. It's natural to emphasize the advantages of your product or service.  Just be careful not to disappoint your customers by failing to deliver the full quality or benefit you promised.

2. Keep customers in the loop. We all run into snags from time to time.  Being upfront with your customers and updating them on any issues or changes to their order will go a long way toward earning their trust and respect.

3. Show appreciation. A thank-you letter sent after the first sale is a good opportunity to educate the client on additional services or products you offer.  Include a gift such as an imprinted box of chocolates or cookies or a logo'd USB drive preloaded with your company's product and services information.

4. Make it easy to remember you. Keep your company name and contact information top of mind with new clients by sending them an imprinted note holder, coffee mug, desk clock or calendar.  They'll be sure to think of you when it's time for your product or service.

5. Be a team player.  Learning your customers' needs and going above and beyond to find solutions to their problems will make you a valued partner - and help you stand out from your competition.

These steps should provide big returns for just a little extra efforts.