Picture this...You're scrolling through your social media feed, and suddenly, there it is — an amazing giveaway that stops you mid-scroll. You're intrigued, you're excited, and before you know it, you're tagging your besties and crossing your fingers for a chance to win.
Great for brand's who want to bring in new followers, boost engagement, and spreading your brand's message far and wide.
Before your business dives headfirst into the world of social media giveaways, it's crucial to know the rules of the game. You don't want to be the one who accidentally breaks Meta's golden rulebook, do you?
Take a moment to familiarise yourself with the rules of the road. Each social media platform has its own set of guidelines governing giveaways, and ignorance is most definitely not bliss in this case.
Do's
Read the fine print! Instagram, Facebook, Twitter — whatever platform you're using, make sure to read and understand their promotion guidelines. Trust us, it's worth the extra few minutes of reading to avoid potential headaches down the road.
Instagram Promotion Guidelines
Facebook Promotion Guidelines
Be Transparent. Transparency is your best friend when it comes to giveaways. Clearly state the rules, eligibility criteria, and prize details upfront to avoid any confusion or misunderstandings.
Follow the Rules. This one seems like a no-brainer, but you'd be surprised how many folks inadvertently break the rules without even realising it. From disclosure requirements to entry restrictions, make sure to dot your i's and cross your t's to stay in the clear.
Dont's
No Purchase Necessary. This one's a biggie — never require participants to make a purchase or spend money to enter your giveaway. Not only is it against the rules, but it's also just plain unethical.
Avoid Misleading Practices. Don't promise one thing and deliver another. If you advertise a prize, make sure you're prepared to deliver it exactly as described. Anything less is a recipe for disappointment and potential backlash.
Don't Forget About Taxes. Yes, even giveaways have tax implications. If your prize is valued at over a certain threshold (usually anything over $50 in NZ), you may be required to report it to the IRD. Consult with a tax professional to ensure you're in compliance.
Steer Clear of Spammy Tactics. Nobody likes spam, least of all the social media gods. Avoid overly promotional language, excessive tagging, or other spammy tactics that could land your giveaway in hot water.
And there you have it, folks — the dos and don'ts of social media giveaways in a nutshell. By following these simple guidelines, you can host giveaways that are not only fun and engaging but also legally sound and platform friendly.
Feeling a bit overwhelmed by all this giveaway talk? Don't worry, we've got your back! Reach out to us today for personalised advice, tailored strategies, and all the support you need to run giveaways that achieve your goals.
Until next time, happy giveaway-ing!
