Everyone loves to win. We like to win small things, like a prize in a snack box or a freebie at a trade show, and we love to win big…cars, shopping sprees and of course the lottery.

Customers feel warm and friendly towards companies that give them a chance to win something. Why not give them a chance to win your product or service? Better yet, get a few other non-competing businesses in on the fun and offer contestants a chance to win big.

For example, you can hold a Give Mom a Break Mothers Day Extravaganza Contest. If you own a car wash offer a free month pass, your neighbor who owns the dry cleaner offers a free service, your good friend the organizer offers a session or two, and the new day spa in town can offer a pampering massage. Each company will announce the contest to their customers. This will bring great exposure for your businesses and create goodwill in your community.

The mom who wins the package will tell everyone about you and become a devoted customer. Call the newspapers and tell them about the story.

Be sure to check out the rules and regulations for holding sweepstakes in your area.

As with all marketing and promotion programs the most important thing to remember is to take really good care of your customers. Treat them great all of the time. Hold a sweepstakes supporting something that you believe in and then make it fun.