As a person completes a purchase in a traditional store they pay for it and walk out the door. They know their transaction has been completed without any question. The process works differently online though as sometimes the transaction isn't completed. It is an uneasy feeling for a consumer shopping online because they want to make sure they are going to get the product or service.

You can take the guess work out of this process for them by using an auto-responder in conjunction with the shopping cart. You will find that many of the best shopping carts out there already have this set up as a convenience for you. This process results in the customer automatically receiving an e-mail thanking them for their purchase. It can also include a confirmation number if you want to provide it for them to reference if they need to contact you.

Many businesses using auto-responders with their shopping cart are able to provide special promotions this way as well. For example the message say tell them about great accessories that would go well with the item they already purchased. If you want to offer the chance to add it at a discounted price or with free shipping you will be able to generate many up sales. It is important to understand that the best way to incorporate this type of marketing ploy is to generate two separate e-mail messages to go out to the customer.

Your thank you auto-responder message needs to be sincere and thank them for deciding to make a purchase from your business. You want to work to make this a long term relationship so make sure they feel appreciated. With the second e-mail you can follow up with them and offer them complimentary products that would go well with their purchase. Many of these purchases will be impulse buying like when you are looking at the items in the checkout line at your local retail store.

Remember that you need to periodically have contact with your customers to keep them informed of what you have to offer. You can also send them special promotions for those who have already purchased from you in order to generate repeat business. Don't go overboard on the amount of information you send their way though. This can be viewed as SPAM and it is also a turn off for many people.

With the proper use of auto-responders you can provide your customers will quality information. This will further help you develop a solid relationship with them because you will be viewed as a reliable business to associate with.