What is a Contest?

What is a contest? 

A contest is defined as an event in which people try to win by doing something better than others. Morley, the LA artist is quoted, “So many people define themselves by what they’ve accomplished or not accomplished.” So, what is a contest?

Seems simple enough really, however, contests are often a definition of self. This is one of the reasons that contest are popular with consumers in most areas. Although many are not motivated by competition  it seems that those who do enter contests are drive primarily by FIVE reasons.

1) Satisfaction from improving performance

2) Desire to WIN

3) Put forth greater effort

4) Satisfaction from performing well

5) Challenge of difficult task

We also know that one of the basics of running a contest or sweepstakes is getting good stuff FREE, or as they say Free Stuff! 

From a consumer standpoint a contest provides the opportunity to WIN and that alone is the primary motivating factor when in comes to entering a contest. A contest allows consumers to meet one of their very basic needs, the need to compete and the satisfaction that comes from putting forth effort and performing well. 

Just an aside, the difference between a contest and a sweepstakes is that Contests are games of skill and a Sweepstakes are game of chance. A contest winner is selected by some set of criteria by judges whereas sweepstakes winners are randomly selected.

Michael Bickerton, Raven5 Ltd, December 2016

 

For more information, learn how to develop a strategy for a contest, what kind of prizing to giveaway in a contest, and how to ensure your contest is legal. Or, read up on registration and bonding requirements, contest prize fulfillment, or other contest marketing services.

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