Personalized email messages can boost website visits. Segmented and tailored email messages can be a key driver for sales, and a personalized follow up can turn a one time customer into a loyal repeat customer, according to a new survey from RightNow Technologies and Harris Interactive.

More than two thirds, 68 percent, of the consumers surveyed said they were prompted to browse a website after receiving an email from a retailer. Even more, 73 percent, said they would appreciate follow up after making a purchase. "Providing shoppers with easy access to relevant information is critical to the success of any online retailer," says Greg Gianforte, CEO of RightNow. The survey also found that fifty percent of consumers have increased shopping online a great deal or somewhat in the past five years.

Of the survey participants, 42 percent said they would prefer to find the answers they need online by themselves, when they have a question or need help.