Do you do giveaways? Does it work for you?

[Pamela Behm]

I've seen a lot of shops that do a giveaway every X number of customers. They throw the names in a hat and give the winner something small and cute. Do any of you do this? Has it worked for you? Do you think it's a good marketing idea? I'm considering trying it to boost my very low sales, but I'd like to get some other opinions on it first. Thanks for sharing! :)

[Tennyo Ceres]

Giveaways and other promotions should be like a Panic button: Used rarely and only when necessary.

Advantage: Lots of new customers come look at your stuff.
Disadvantage: Do it too often and people will not buy anything 'til you have another giveaway/promotion. (See: Macy's.)

I say do what Victoria's Secret does: go semi-annual (twice a year), but never announce when. It'll keep your customers on their toes and coming back.

[Jennifer Schroll]

Has anyone ever done anything along the lines of a button gift? Like a neat bookmark or gift tag with every order, possibly made from scraps?

[Pamela Behm]

I usually include a reusable gift tag with ribbon that says "Thank You!" for every card someone buys from me. I don't tell people that they're getting it though. A couple of people mentioned that they thought it was a nice surprise. I think that people remember it more sometimes if they aren't expecting something like that and then get a little something extra. What do you guys think?

[Dianne]

When I send out a package...I always include a gift tag or small card. I often have an odd number of extra tags or cards left over when I make them...and it's a good way to use them. The buyers are always pleased with the extra gift and I'm pleased if they're pleased.

[Tennyo Ceres]

Another issue I'm having now is that a regular Etsy buyer I'm _expecting_ extras to come with his/her purchase and get miffed when I don't give extra goodies. I'm not a machine that will give you free things all the time. Handmade paper and artwork doesn't just grow from trees you know!

[Tennyo Ceres]

Another issue I'm having now is that a regular Etsy buyer is _expecting_ extras to come with his/her purchase and get miffed when I don't give extra goodies. I'm not a machine that will give you free things all the time. Handmade paper and artwork doesn't just grow from trees you know!

[Pamela Behm]

That sounds a bit nervy of the person. They should expect to get what they paid for. Especially if nothing extra was mentioned, why are they anticipating getting more? Kind of rude of them...

[Mandee Adams]

Well, I don't agree with HAVING to send anything extra. You get what you paid for. It is completely up to you whether or not you send anything in the way of "goodies". I've ordered many items on Etsy and don't always get anything extra...I wouldn't expect it...nor should anyone else.

[Mandee Adams]

I include a 10% off coupon with every order hoping for a return customer. Everyone likes a deal, and if they have a coupon, my thinking is that they'll return for something else.

[Terri Moore]

I have tried it but it hasn't resulted in any sales.

Terri
http://www.terrbear38.blogspot.com/

[Becky McDermitt]

Wow! I'm glad I checked out this post because there is some awesome stuff on here!! As a newbie, I totally love hearing what older sellers have to say!

I have yet to do an in-shop promotion... but when/if I do, I'll have a lot of good advice to lean on!