New Feature: Add Video to Your TapKat Sweepstakes Site
We are excited to unveil TapKat’s newest tool, the ability to upload a 30-second video as the first slider on your sweepstakes site!
Marketers across industries know that video content is more engaging to viewers than static images. The dynamic nature of video — especially if it’s well done — will hold attention for longer, makes a piece of content more likely to be shared, and increases donations. Our nonprofit customers intuitively know this, too, and we’re thrilled that you can now incorporate this powerful tool into your TapKat sweepstakes site.
Today we’re sharing some tips for making the most of your video content, and we’ll look at an example of a successful video component created by our case study nonprofit, the Shelby American Collection.
The Nuts and Bolts for Your TapKat Sweepstakes Video
When you’re creating your video, there are a few things to keep in mind:
The video will be in the position of the first slider. Once the video finishes playing, the slider will automatically transition to the next image.
There is a maximum length of 30 seconds for your video. This is the perfect amount of time to capture attention, generate interest, and then let your donors move on to the donation buttons.
Use audio and text to your advantage! You’ll be able to incorporate audio, but not all users will have the sound turned on. It’s a good idea to include text in your video as well, for those folks who don’t or can’t have their audio turned on (say, if they’re watching the video in public and don’t want to turn it up).
You have the option to upload one video to your sweepstakes site — it’s not required. And yes, you can still have a very successful sweepstakes without video, just like the Broomfield Rotary Club, the International Motor Racing Research Center, the Desert Roads and Trails Association, the Muskegon Rescue Mission, and many, many other nonprofits have in the last several months.
Those are the parameters for your video. Now let’s look at what makes for a great, compelling video.
What Makes a Great Video for Your TapKat Sweepstakes Site?
Most of us consume so much video content these days that we can instinctively tell what makes for a great video. But consuming video and creating video are different things, so let’s break down the elements of a video that succeeds in inspiring donors to get involved.
Beautiful imagery. Just like your slide photos need to be clear, bright, and highlight how cool your prize is, your moving pictures should, too. If you can, we recommend hiring a professional videographer to capture the likeness of your prize. Whether it’s a vehicle, a piece of jewelry, the experience of a lifetime, or something else, a professional videographer will know just how to work the camera and lighting to make your prize really shine.
Exciting music. Choose music that embodies the spirit of your prize. If your prize is a trip to Mexico, upbeat salsa music makes a lot of sense! If you’re promoting a truck, maybe country music would capture the vibe right. Make sure that you have rights to your music by selecting and purchasing the right track from a royalty-free website like AudioJungle.
Clear voiceover. Let’s use all the tools at your disposal! Record a voice talking about your prize and overlay the audio above the music. Just make sure that it’s clear and not drowned out by the music. And remember, the voice doesn’t have to say too much, just the basics (“We’re giving away an IKEA kitchen makeover! Enter today!”)
Compelling text. Finally, it’s a good idea to include brief and compelling text on the screen of your video. It doesn’t have to be a lot, just enough to catch the eye and clearly articulate what your sweepstakes is all about. See the video above for a reference.
Subtitles/Captions. If you are using voiceover in the video, plan to have captions or subtitles for the video as well. This comes in handy when people are watching the video but don’t have the option to turn on the sound.
Remember that your video doesn’t have to be long! 30 seconds is the maximum length, but your video might be shorter, and that’s okay, too. Create something that plays to the strengths of your prize and you’ll be in good shape.
Ready to Set Up Your TapKat Sweepstakes?
Running a TapKat sweepstakes is fun and easy! We’ve put together an entire arsenal of tools you can use to powerfully market your fundraiser. If you’re ready to get started, apply for an account today to dive in.
