So, you’ve got a killer product but are having difficulty grabbing your audience’s attention. Maybe you want to boost brand awareness amongst your local community. Whatever the reason, there are numerous ways to achieve both goals. And hosting a giveaway is one of them.
Don’t know where to begin? We’ve got you covered. Here’s a short guide explaining what giveaways are, why they are effective, and how you can make them work for your brand. Let’s dive in!
What Exactly Are Giveaways?
A giveaway is any product you give to your customers, either free or if they win a contest. The excitement of winning something is undeniable, and brands capitalize on this opportunity.
As a brand, you can host giveaways to increase client retention and satisfaction. Giveaways can be used in a number of situations. For instance, if you’re attending a trade show or a networking event, you can hand out branded products. Depending on your niche, this can include custom makeup bags, sports duffel bags, or water bottles. Add your logo and a short, engaging call to action, and you’ve got yourself a marketing opportunity.
Other giveaway ideas include:
- A Coupon code
- A photo booth to print branded photos
- Something free with a purchase
- Requesting feedback and offering something in return
- Asking followers to suggest captions
- Spin the wheel game with different prize options
There are endless giveaway ideas for social media, including:
- Gift cards
- Gift baskets
- Tickets to an event
- Candy
- Apparel, such as hoodies or t-shirts
- Tote bags
Why Contests and Giveaways Are Effective
Here are four reasons giveaways boost brand awareness:
They encourage sharing
Many giveaway formats, especially contests, require participants to share the post with friends or tag others. This can directly expand your reach to new audiences. Giveaways also create a buzz and intrigue around your brand. With a well-thought-out campaign, you have the potential to go viral.
They help generate leads
Having trouble building your email list? Hosting a giveaway might be the perfect solution. You can require participants to enter their email to enter. This will give you a list of qualified leads who have shown interest in your brand.
They help showcase your products
Giveaways are a low-pressure way to get your products or services in front of potential customers.
They foster community
Social media giveaways encourage community building and engagement. You can not only gain new followers but also strengthen your relationship with the previous ones.
Hosting a Giveaway: Strategies and Tips
So you’ve decided to host a giveaway. Make sure to follow these tips:
- Set clear and measurable goals before launching. Do you want to build email lists? Drive traffic to your website? Or increase social media following?
- Choose the right type of content. Consider your goals and the vision of your brand to choose between photo contests and quiz contests.
- Promote your giveaway effectively. Share it across all your marketing channels.
- Make the entry simple and clear.
