I keep getting asked how I manage to host such cool giveaways, so I decided to give up the details on how to score freebies for your own readers:Where to look: Did you come across something online or at the store that you adore? Or do you already own something that you can't live without? Is there a chance your readers would like it too? Then there you go.
In my case it's a bit of research, a bit of stuff I have and a bit of things falling into my lap because of my line of work. I also have the advantage of having a lot of contacts at my fingertips.
In my case it's a bit of research, a bit of stuff I have and a bit of things falling into my lap because of my line of work. I also have the advantage of having a lot of contacts at my fingertips.
Who to ask: Public relations people can either be your biggest ally or your worst nightmare, but you'll be surprised by how often they're willing to coordinate something with you. Find out who handles the PR for the company and then who works on that product's account. This usually pertains to bigger companies so you might be able to contact the owner directly if dealing with a smaller business. Also, if the PR rep is giving you the run around or isn't taking you seriously, cut the middle (wo)man out and contact the manager or owner of the business directly. Sometimes they have no clue that someone is trying to work with them.
What to say: Develop a good "elevator pitch" for your blog. Who are you, what is your blog about and who's your audience? Use this to explain why your blog/readers are the perfect market for this product. Remember that companies want to attract potential customers and if they don't sense any benefit from this opportunity, they'll just opt out. And like any good cover letter, you'll want to tailor each pitch to the business you're reaching out to.
Be not afraid: At the end of the day companies want free advertising and good publicity for their product so it's up to you to call the shots on your blog and be honest with your readers. Do not sacrifice the credibility of your blog under any circumstances. There will be times when the PR person will want you to review something without even trying it for yourself. Or when hosting a giveaway will come with 5,000 rules. Know what your limits are and what's important to you and don't compromise yourself or your work for anyone.
Image: flickr.com
Image: flickr.com
thanks for the advice. Do you have any advice on how to have a successful giveaway?
ReplyDeleteI'm having my first one today and nervous no one will enter.
If you're part of any social networking sites (like Twitter, Facebook, 20sb, etc) post links to your giveaway so your friends can visit and participate. Visit other bloggers and leave relevant on their posts. Don't spam them with "Hi, enter my giveaway [insert link]." Instead, comment on what they wrote and hopefully they'll pop in for a visit.
ReplyDeleteOnce my giveaway post is up, I send along a link to the company and tell them to feel free to post on any blogs or social networking pages they have so their followers can participate as well. Sometimes they do and sometimes they don't, but it's another way to promote yourself!
Those are some good tips. The giveaways I've hosted have just been from my own personal stash. It wasn't until recently that I found out just how many companies are happy to give stuff away.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the tips. I was wondering how you always have such great giveways! I have done a few giveaways at my blog, but they have usually been things from my Etsy shop. I really need to branch out. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteExcellent post! We refuse to give away a product, especially if it's something that is put on one's bod without reviewing it first. I would feel terrible if we gave away something that gave people hives or something. Ah ha ha
ReplyDeleteAnd I mean trying it out first. I swear I'm forever apologizing for my typos. You would think I would learn to get a couple cups of Joe in me before I opened up the old laptop. Ah ha ha
ReplyDeleteNice fill someone in on and this enter helped me alot in my college assignement. Thanks you on your information.
ReplyDeleteHello Dorkys,
ReplyDeleteThank you for this post. I'm in the process of putting together my first giveaway and your information is very helpful. Again, many thanks. - Nikola
Woaah, I didn't know also not until I read your blog ... I made a blog just for the contests I join and I wanted to host one... but hesitant ... thanks for the info...
ReplyDeleteI have 14 followers on my blog. A giveaway would probably be a good idea if I want more. Only problem is, the blog is directed at "The Wiggles" but a lot of my followers are mommies. Would the giveaways you think have to do with The Wiggles at all to make sense?
ReplyDeleteNice blog! From your blog, I guess we may be do a same job. I think we can have a cooperation, that is so perfect!
ReplyDeleteThis is great advice! I plan to host my first give away soon as well and I'm excited! if anyones interested, heres my fashion blog to keep posted!
ReplyDeleteHope to see you there :)
Vivi
www.Discipleofchic.com
html - lehenga saree
ReplyDeleteIt’s really great stuff overall, I just wanted to say thank you. I am looking forward to another great article from your side.