Gift certificates as prizes/rewards?

[Celicaphile]

A local business donated some gift certificates/cards to my local website for promotional use. I've already had a giveaway to get people to register and introduce themselves. I also just completed a contest with some larger prizes. It was fun, and I have more contests planned, but they may be a little time consuming. The larger gift certificates expire at the end of the year and we have a baby due between now and then, so I'm a little pressed for time.

I want to get more active members, more followers on Twitter, more fans on Facebook, etc. Mostly, I just want to get the word out to as many people in the area as possible. Unfortunately, I only have 1 large, 1 medium and 2 small (relatively speaking) prizes left. Once these are gone, I can ask for more...

Any suggestions?

[rogerd]

The more you grow your activity, Celiaphile, the more easily you will attract these "door prizes."

Still, I wouldn't overdo it. If people participate only for a prize, many won't be long-term contributors.

[maximillianos]

Agree with rogerd. We have long considered using incentives to boost user participation on the site, but it is a slippery road. Once you go down that road, incentives might be expected by your members all the time. And if you stop, they could feel slighted and stop using the site.

I think some incentives/promotions are fine, but don't make it a regular habit unless you plan on doing it for the long haul.

Just my take! Others may have a different experience!