Bloggers who want to build rapport with their readers or become better established in their area of expertise will benefit from running consistent giveaways that reward their most loyal readers. For site owners that need a bit more convincing, here are a few more reasons why a blog contest is a good idea.
Traffic
For blogs looking for an instant boost in traffic, contests and giveaways are a good solution. Contests can double the amount of traffic typically received in a day, if just for the duration of the contest. In order to maximize traffic, blog owners should advertise their contests on sites like tipjunkie.net or contestblogger.com. Submitting the contest post link to search engines such as Google, Yahoo, and Ask.com is also a good idea.
Goodwill
The right prize can add a tremendous amount of goodwill between a blogger and his or her readership. Bloggers should obtain prizes that compliment the interests of their site visitors. Books, CDs, and gift certificates are all popular prize options. Sites like Profnet.com can assist bloggers in obtaining prizes for their contest.
New Visitors
While a temporary traffic boost is possible when running a contest, the goal for any blogger is to find new readership. Even if certain readers come to the blog specifically for the contest, others will likely stay on as dedicated readers. Readers are looking for new blogs to read as much as bloggers are searching for visitors. Contests can be one way to make this happen.
Relationships with Publicists and Organizations
When bloggers develop a reputation for frequent contests, publicists and marketing people take notice. Companies are always looking for ways to get the word out about their products, and blogs are a great way to do this. Certain blogs may provide the perfect opportunity to advertise their products in the form of a contest. When readers are introduced to a product or service that matches their interest, it benefits them, the company, and the blog site owner.
After a while, company may begin to approach bloggers to run contests instead of the other way around. Giveaways then become a win-win for all parties involved.
Development of Expertise
The more a blogger runs various contests, the greater the opportunity to familiarize his or herself with the products or services their readers enjoy. This helps bloggers become more knowledgeable on their subject matter. Bloggers who run contests also get free merchandise from companies from time to time so they can give honest reviews and keep their readers updated. Speaking from this perspective gives the blogger an increased level of experience and expertise.
Blog contests have many benefits, but they should be combined with great content. That way, when new visitors come to the blog, they will be able to also get informed and interact with the community. For bloggers looking for ways to find new readers, increase their credibility, and provide much appreciated benefits, giveaways are the way to go.
Cherie Burbach - Cherie Burbach writes about dating, relationships, health, sports, and lifestyle. She's the author of eleven books and ebooks.
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