Sweepstakes

Sweepstakes promotions are a good way to generate name recognition for your business

When you're considering a sweepstakes contest, you need to know what constitutes a sweepstakes versus a lottery. If you understand the legal implications, you can use a sweepstakes promotion to advertise your business to new customers and create name recognition for your business while side-stepping the pitfalls of poorly-run sweepstakes.

Determine what type of sweepstakes you want to hold. There are direct mail sweepstakes, online sweepstakes, house sweepstakes, travel sweepstakes and cash sweepstakes. The style of sweepstakes promotion you choose will help you focus the conditions and guidelines of your contest. Tailor your sweepstakes guidelines toward your prize to generate the best results and consider the following:

1. Know local regulations and requirements for sweepstakes contests.

2. Learn the mailing laws regarding contests and sweepstakes.

3. Find a professional company to run your contests and sweepstakes.

 

Know your legal obligations in a sweepstakes giveaway

There are specific regulations that govern sweepstakes giveaways. You need to make sure your sweepstakes promotion meets those regulations in order to create the positive name recognition you desire and avoid costly and damaging mistakes.
Try: Direct Marketing Association provides you with a list of criteria so you know what you're offering or considering is a valid sweepstakes. Marketing Resources Incorporated explains the differences between a sweepstakes, a promotional game and a contest.

Consider the legal ramifications of using the mail system for sweepstakes promotions

The United States Postal Service is a branch of the government and there are stiff fines and penalties that can be applied for the improper use of the postal system. Make sure you're running your sweepstakes promotion well within the guidelines before you use the mail to promote your sweepstakes and your business.
Try: James P. Santella & Associates will help you understand the legal ramifications of using the postal service to promote your sweepstakes. The Lustigman Firm has a publication dedicated to helping you understand the laws regarding sweepstakes and the United States Postal Service.

Rely on the professionals for sweepstakes contests

Let's face it, you know how to run your business and there are others who know how to run the sweepstakes business. Why not hire a qualified professional to oversee your sweepstakes giveaway so you know it's done properly and you aren't taking valuable time away from your business? It makes sense to rely on the professionals who are experts in the field of sweepstakes contests.
Try: Alliance Sweepstakes Services has decades of experience in running sweepstakes as a way to promote your business and are happy to take care of the details for you, leaving you to the day-to-day running of your business. American Sweepstakes & Promotion Co. prides itself in exemplary customer service and a proven track record of sweepstakes promotions done well.

 

• Consider using a promotional company with an attorney who specializes in online sweepstakes. There are different rules regulating Internet sweepstakes that an attorney can guide you through.

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