How to do Giveaways on Social Media Networks

How many of you have ever been browsing through Facebook, Twitter, or blog sites and have come across a product giveaway or contest of some sort? I know I have. Giveaways are a great way to build a buzz around your brand and your products, but some marketers still have no idea how to create them appropriately.

In order to create a successful giveaway, the rules of entry must be kept SIMPLE. Once the instructions become too complicated for your fans, they will not participate. If you’re giving a product away on Facebook or Twitter, make sure the guidelines suggest that your followers leave a comment or tweet in response to your giveaway. This engages the consumer and also gives them an incentive to spread the word on your contest to their friends that may be interested in what you are offering.
For example, if PMC was giving away a FREE Facebook fan page creation. To enter, we would ask that you leave a comment or tweet us what your business plans to do with a Facebook page.

Once your consumers have responded, you can create a list of all entrants. Select one randomly and then feature them on your social network as the winner of your awesome giveaway. By showing consumers that they will be acknowledged for their participation as well as the chance to win a prize of monetary value, you can expect to see them getting involved in your future giveaways.

Another great rule of entry is to “Like us on Facebook” or “Follow us on Twitter” then leave a comment to make us aware of your participation. This increases your fan base and is a win-win situation for everyone. Your business gets more fans, and your customers only had to click a button and type a few words to be entered to win a prize. This method works well on blog sites, especially since a lot of bloggers promote giveaways for other companies.

Take a look at my favorite food blogging site, Just Add Cheese, to get an idea of how you should do a giveaway if you are offering another company’s products. The rules of entry are simple, to the point, and promote both companies while engaging consumers across all social networks. Winning.

The most important aspect of your giveaway is the product itself. Make sure you are presenting a product that is valuable to your consumers, but also will make a good impression on your company. If you sell a variety of pillows, for example, offer your fans the best one you have even if it may be the most expensive. By giving away your most popular product, you can be sure to receive positive feedback from your consumers, which reflects positively on your brand image.

If you know of any cool contests or giveaways that are happening now, feel free to post them below! We would love to see what kinds of giveaways that our readers come across or are offering from their own business. PMC is always willing to help spread the word!