When trying to increase social media engagement, one of the first words that comes to mind is… contest! It turns out, there are plenty of creative ways to interact with your fan base. Running a contest on Instagram is a strong way to increase your following and online activity. With that said, let’s get started by taking a look at some engaging ways you can promote your Instagram contest.
Hashtags
When planning a hashtag contest, be sure to pick a hashtag that is contest relevant, so you can avoid the process of weeding out any entries. Giving the user detailed specifics will help appeal to the demographic you are trying to reach. For example, if you are running a contest for a travel company, you might want contestants to share their best photo from a past vacation. For entry, your company must be tagged and the specific contest hashtag should be included to qualify. The winner will receive a discount on their next trip or a travel prize.
User-Generated Photos
Users are happy to create content for you, so why not let them? All you have to do is ask contestants to post a photo on their own account and tag the brand for a chance to win. This contest will not only help increase your following, but also show the customers personal recommendations for your product.
Run a Caption Contest
They say a photo is worth a thousand words but that takes out some of the fun, right? Similar to a comment contest, this one can create some laughs. Post a creative photo and ask your audience to comment with the perfect caption! This can help drive immediate participation.
A Celebration
Does your product or brand have an upcoming birthday? This is a great time of year to show your appreciation by giving back. Welcome your followers to snap a selfie with your brand to redeem a prize or discount. If you run a brick-and-mortar, require the selfie be taken on location. Not only will this show where the product is sold, but will also increase foot traffic. If you invite your followers to celebrate, they will!
Like to Win
The most simple and straightforward way to gain followers in a contest is the “Like to Win” campaign. When using this giveaway on Instagram, ask your fans to follow and double-tap to win! Double clicking the product’s image will ‘like’ the photo. Be sure to include the a clear CTA in your image with a contest hashtag for increased results. Since you are marketing what you make, use this as your prize!
Pick Your Winner
There are a couple of steps in the process of contacting your winner:
- Re-post their winning entry or with a new “winner” graphic.
- Include a @tag on the post so the contestant is guaranteed to see the notification.
- Be sure to post further instructions to claim the prize. This will include having them e-mail you, call you, or stop into your place of business to redeem.
To have a successful contest, it must be marketed! Are you looking for some fresh ideas to revive your brand’s interaction with followers? We have plenty of tricks up our sleeves to keep your online presence active. Get creative and run your own Instagram contest with our team at The Modern Connection.
