Contests are great ways to raise awareness of your product or company, but what will inspire people to enter?
This week's article discusses using contests to create "buzz" around your product, company, or service.
However, the prize has to be compelling before you will get many entries! If you have a popular product, such as a new electronic gadget or travel service, why not use your product itself as a giveaway? My company makes GPS modules, so our recent tradeshow giveaway was an automotive GPS system. Many people came by our booth to drop their business card in our fishbowl for the chance to win.
Other great prizes include iPods, trips and airfare, vacation rentals, and computer games (in youth oriented markets).
Always keep your audience in mind when selecting a prize. If you have a hobby store, why not giveaway a train caboose or set of model paints? If you have a wireless service store, then offering a mobile application or phone upgrade is a good choice.
There are many prizes out there that can be donated by partners wishing your good will, or the enhanced publicity gained through the donation as well. Don't be shy about approaching them!
Good luck!
