A few issues ago we sent a gift to the first subscriber to open the newsletter. We're bringing this campaign back for this and the January 1st issues. I received many emails asking how I know who is first. The newsletter program I use generates a list noting email address, date and time of each opening. Don't worry. I'll know who you are. Perhaps it will be you this time. Good luck!

When we offered our Top 25 Holiday Product Sources free to the first ten requests in the Nov. 1st issue, we were barraged with emails. The report is still available until Dec. 31st, however, to everyone who buys any business success product.

In this issue you'll learn how to get new customers, get more business from current customers, and cut your costs to increase profits in the new year.

Thank you for your support throughout the year. We appreciate you and will never share or sell your email address.

1. Network with your colleagues. Consider joining a business network where you can meet potential clients and learn about business. One of the most popular national groups is Business Network International.Or perhaps an online network of your colleagues is what you prefer. If so, consider participating in the message board at www.gbexchang e.com.

2. Get referrals from your satisfied customers.

3. Subscribe to business and gift magazines to learn techniques that have worked for others. See a list of these at www.GiftBasketBusinessWorld. com

4. Offer a free gift, a discount or gift certificate with purchase. Bath and Body Works uses this technique successfully by offering a certain percentage off a purchase or offering a free gift with purchase. Estee Lauder is credited with being the pioneer of this idea, but many companies have adopted it.

5. Keep in touch with your customers and give them a reason to buy from you. Send postcards at least once a month with clever and stimulating marketing ideas. If you need help with some ideas, get the audio CDs, 99 Sizzling Marketing Ideas to Make More Money and its companion 99 More Sizzling Marketing Ideas to Make More Money. With these two CD's you'll have marketing ideas for every month of the year to help increase your profits.

6. Survey your customers for ideas on how to improve your service.

Great gift basket designs begin with the right container. Now you can locate the perfect container without spending hours searching the yellow pages or the Internet. Contain It! 2nd Edition is a listing of over 100 U.S.manufacturers and distributors of baskets, themed boxes, picnic backpacks, trays, trunks, movie reel tins and more. Search alphabetically or go directly to the state listing to discover the companies in your own state.

Contain It! 2nd Editionlists all the contact information you need to reach these sources including websites where available and a brief description of their products. In addition, we've included a chart that shows you how to charge for individual baskets when they come in a set. Get your copy now for only $29.95 at www.GiftBasketBusinessWorl d.com

As you finish your holiday orders, it's time to take inventory of not only supplies, but of your sources and spending habits. To make more profit in the new year, you'll need to cut costs without sacrificing quality. Here are some great sources whose affordable prices will help you cut costs.

• Great service on imprinted ribbon and a huge variety of custom chocolates at www.adamsplacecountrygourmet.com.
• The most affordable colored shred around is at J.P. Shredders at www.pazazzsh reds.com
• For sharp, but inexpensive scissors visit the kitchen utensils department of Ikea.
• Excellent source of shrinkwrap bags and more at www.crysta lvisionpkg.com
• Shipping boxes, tape, etc. of all sizes are ready for you at www.uline.com
• Satin acetate and themed ribbon best prices are at www.fabricbarn.co m
• Affordable bath and body products with no minimum. www.serafinabo dy.com
• Delicious cookies, creative boxes, affordable prices. www.toogoo dgourmet.com

Part of your new year plans may be to send ads to newspapers or offers to clients. Learn how to improve your ads with the trigger words that spur customers to part with their money. Read this article to get all the tips and ideas you need to run a winning ad campaign.

Share with me at flora@giftbasketbusinessworld.com how you use this information in your business and you will receive a thank you gift. Be sure to include your name, address, city and zip in your email