Prizing is a critical step. Ensuring you have a product that is valuable to your email list and social following is a must. If possible, it’s recommended that the prize is a product or service provided by your company. If you are in the sewing machine business then offer up a sewing machine, as it will appeal to your user group and engage prospects and those interested in sewing.
If the prize is too generic in nature, while you might get opt-ins, they may be of a lesser quality as they might not care for any of the products or services you offer. Prizing can also be considered as coupons as a purchase incentive and can be used as a secondary prize for all entrants. Focus on the end, what do you hope to accomplish? Your contest marketing program can provide many incentives to drive in store traffic, sales or even a complete online sales process.