If potential prospects remember you – from a networking meeting you attended, from an article you wrote, from an unsolicited phone call you placed, from an e-mail you sent – you automatically increase the odds of one day converting them to customers. So do the little things to make a great and lasting impression.

When sending e-mails or posting on newsgroups, always provide a signature or tag line for your business. This five- to 10-line signature should tell readers what you do and make it easy for them to identify your business.

If you’re placing articles in publications, make your byline work for you, too. Always include a credit line at the end of the articles you submit and ask that it accompany the article. Your credit line should give a few words about your business and should include your e-mail address and Web site URL, if applicable. If you don’t have a Web site, then include your telephone number instead.

When you’re networking with potential customers – either formally or casually – capture as much information about them as possible. Make notes on their business cards about their interests and needs. Then follow up to help cement your name recognition.

The follow up can be as simple as a “Nice To Meet You” note that says you enjoyed the conversation. Include your business card and invite the person to call you if they need any assistance in the future.

Your follow up can also be more personal. For instance, if you’re familiar with the prospect’s business, you might send an article of interest about his or her industry. Just jot a note to accompany the article, saying you saw the piece and thought of them. Again, include your business card.

Bob Leduc, a sales consultant with more than 30 years of experience in developing sales leads, is a stronger believer in personalizing messages to prospects. He advises using a prospect’s first name anytime you want to increase sales.

“The most important word your prospects and customers know is their name, Leduc notes. “It’s a powerful magnet you can use anytime you want to get their immediate attention.”