1. Look at the customer details you already have, such as those in your accounts receivable system. It is very likely you may already have a useful database to begin using direct mail.
2. If you don't already have customer details, one of the best ways you can capture information is at the point of sale. You can capture name, address, the type of product bought, how often they buy, the average value spent, birthdays and family details.
3. Use Australia Post's Unaddressed Mail service to target specific geographic areas and include a special offer or prize to encourage consumers to respond with their details, which you can then use for Direct Mail campaigns.
4. There are a number of databases available that can help you identify and target potential new customers. First Direct Solutions offers (primarily) consumer data solutions to help you reach your target audience.
5. To maintain your current database, ensure that whenever a customer provides new details they are updated.
6. Keep track of customers, and reduce errors and mailing costs by using Australia Post's address cleansing, validation and change of address services
7.  Capture information with in-store competitions. Include fields to be filled out on the competition form to ensure you receive the information you'll need to communicate with your customers in the future.
8. VIP or loyalty programs with special offers are a great way to gather customer information and to encourage repeat business.
9. Add to your database by providing a special offer if friends or family also join or make a purchase.