How to run a social media giveaway contest
A social media giveaway contest is an effective way to engage your current customers and attract new ones. Successful social media contests promote your business and increase visibility online. Following these guidelines will help you run a successful social media contest:
Give prizes that correspond with what your business does
MassPlanner, a social media automation technology company, says it’s important to give prizes that correlate with what your company does. While most people would like a $100 gift card to a local restaurant, not all of them would consider purchasing your products and services once the contest is over. However, if you offer a prize that is relevant to your business, your target audience will be more likely to enter your contest and purchase your products afterward. For instance, a skincare company could consider giving away a moisturizer or exfoliating product.
“Successful social media contests can promote your business and increase its visibility online.”
Follow laws and regulations
If you want to hold a social media giveaway contest, you must abide by all the laws and regulations. According to Law360, not following a site’s terms and guidelines can result in suspension or closing of your company’s social media page. For example, Facebook requires all promotions to admit they are not sponsored, endorsed or administered by Facebook.
Keep it simple
If you ask entrants for too much personal information or require them to click through several pages, they’ll be less likely to participate. Make the entry process quick and easy to prevent possible entrants from getting frustrated.
Promote often
Don’t expect your social media contest to gain popularity without any promotion. You shouldn’t bombard your followers with reminders every day, but don’t be afraid to refresh their memory at least two to three times a week. According to Maximize Social Business, one of the best ways to promote your social media contest is through Facebook ads. These ads allow you to target Facebook users based on their likes, interests and other criteria.
Feature an image of the prize
No one wants to read a bunch of text before signing up for a contest. People want to see images of the prize at stake. Whether you are giving away an iPad or pair of shoes, featuring a picture of it will entice people to enter the contest.