HOW TO EXECUTE AN ONLINE PROMOTION
posted in: Music News
If you’ve been following our tutorials, then you already know how to put together a killer EPK as well as grow a fan base online. So let’s use this knowledge together and get some action. It’s time to promote.
Promotions are important tools to raise awareness about yourself and/or your band while engaging your fan base. But remember to use promotions sparingly because your supporters will start to feel less like fans and more like worker bees if they are inundated with too many contests, giveaways, etc. Be smart and focus your efforts on important events and objectives that need support.
A good promotion is one that gives your fans an easy and clear call-to-action and rewards them with something of a high perceived value such as tickets to a show, an advance copy of a CD, a free t-shirt, a meet-and-greet or a private acoustic performance. Something that won’t cost you much, but will feel special to your fans.
Remember to deliver on your promise in a timely manner. In other words, don’t wait six weeks before putting a CD in the mail to a contest winner. And be sure to recognize and thank not only the winner(s) but everyone who participated in the promotion as well. That’s just good manners.
Here are some ideas for easy online promotions:
¢ Ask your fans post one of your songs on their profile and email you once they’ve done it. First 10 do so get a free download, free CD, etc.
¢ Have your fans change their profile picture to your new album cover and email you a screenshot. Do a random drawing and send the winner an autographed copy of the CD.
¢ Let your fans create a video to your new single. Post the videos on your profile page and ask your fans vote on their favorite. Send the winner a prize package.
¢ If you’re planning a tour, ask your fans to send a show invite to all their friends. The first 20 to send you a screenshot of the invite they sent get a free t-shirt.
¢ Post a blog calling on your fans to contact their local radio station and request your single (be sure to provide the call numbers for them). Plan a free show for the first market that adds your song into rotation.
When it comes to promotions, the sky is the limit. Be creative, have fun and give your fans something great to reward their efforts.
