Blogs > Contest Rules – Watch Out
Contest Rules – Watch Out
October 6, 2015 Jesse Bickerton
It’s October, and for most of us, it’s back to the regular work routine (or school schedule for some), and get back to business! What can a business do to get customers moving? Simple, run an online contest. It’s what we at RAVEN5 would do (of course, check out “The Contest Contest” which is our unique new contest). Remember though, there are some things you should be careful of when planning to do so…
When running an online contest, especially in Canada, you must be careful not to violate certain laws that are in place. If you’ve ever run a contest, you might’ve wondered why…
Why do I have to answer a math problem like, “What is 15 + (8*10) – 24?” ?
- Technically, this makes it not “game of chance” and now has an “element of skill” involved.
Why do all contests include “No Purchase Required, to enter, please mail…”
- All contests must be free to enter.
Obviously, a prize must be included with a contest as well. Finally, online contests are required to have their rules placed visibly for all entrants to see. This is part of the Canadian Competition Act, which requires a business to include:
- Business Name and Contact Info
- Eligibility
- Prize distribution
- Odds of winning
- Disclaimers
Finally, ever wonder why most Canadian contests disqualify Quebec? It’s due to the many rules and regulations that is laid out, by what is commonly referred to as the “Régie“. There are costs associated with registering and deposits when running a contest, so companies tend to simply not include Quebec. If you plan to run a contest there, take extra time and caution.
There’s a great article here about how not to “Run Afoul of the Law” which contains a lot of good information. I’ve also talked about if you “Want to Run an Online Contest” before.
If you want to run an online contest, there’s a lot to remember. That’s what we at RAVEN5 do best. We are #ContestMarketing – check us out today if you want to build your business, grow your customer base and increase sales.
Jesse Bickerton, RAVEN5, October 2015
For more information, learn how to develop a strategy for a contest, what kind of prizing to giveaway in a contest, and how to ensure your contest is legal. Or, read up on registration and bonding requirements, contest prize fulfillment, or other contest marketing services.
Resources:
http://www.competitionbureau.gc.ca/eic/site/cb-bc.nsf/eng/h_00148.html
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