We’ve told you how now can be a good time to start your own business, but to stay alive in the down economy you need to put a little cherry on top to keep customers and keep drawing them in. The same-old deal just won’t cut it anymore.In a Bloomberg interview, marketing professor Philip Kotler says:

Add some additional benefits to your standard offer. Offer free shipment, extend your guarantee, or create a more generous return policy.

One good example is online shoe store Zappos, which periodically gives out memberships to its “VIP Club” offering free shipping, both ways, forever.

Making Money in Chaotic Times [Bloomberg] (Photo: ashi)

Want more consumer news? Visit our parent organization, Consumer Reports, for the latest on scams, recalls, and other consumer issues.