Getting the most out of a contest.

[dan_Vt]

I'm developing a site and am considering a contest to help move things along once launched. The contest would involve users sending in stories of sorts, and the winning "story" would receive the prize (thinking a good one, maybe $500).

Obviously I want to get the most out of that so it doesn't seem like I didn't get a return (the stories would be posted). What recommendations do you have for capitalizing as much as possible on the contest? (high number of submissions)

I know I'll need to advertise it, what sort of budget would you recommend? What other things should I do? Forum posts...social marketing... Looking for more suggestions.

Thanks.

 

[sufi]

I think if you offer several prizes then it would be a good idea.

For example:

$250 for #1
$100 for #2
$50 for #3
$30 for #4
$10 each for #5, #6, #7, #8, #9, #10 and #11

 

[dan_Vt]

I think if you offer several prizes then it would be a good idea.

For example:

$250 for #1
$100 for #2
$50 for #3
$30 for #4
$10 each for #5, #6, #7, #8, #9, #10 and #11

Hmmm, I don't know about that. I think the draw of a larger prize would bring more in. Maybe someone who has tried these types of variations will chime in.

 

[rooktook]

I think Sufi's suggestion would work better.By offering more chances to win,you would probably draw more people.The big money scenario sounds tempting,but I would like more chances at getting any amount.

Forums and social marketing would work best.I'm not sure if article marketing would work fast enough for this.Best of luck.

 

[dan_Vt]

Thanks for the replies. I'll take all that into consideration.