personally, I HATE free gifts..  .. if I want something I'll buy it, I do not need an ebay seller sending me items. 

Good Descriptions, clear photos, excellent packing and prompt postage are  all I want or expect from a seller when I buy something.

for which they are rewarded with a thank you email and appropriate feedback.

I do not need 'new friends'  'goodies' or a pen pal.  it is a business transaction. end of story.