Hey there! Welcome to the affiliate world!
Running sweepstakes with image ads can still work, but you're right—video and interactive formats tend to grab more attention nowadays. That said, image ads can be effective if done strategically. Here are some tips and advice to help you make image ads work for sweepstakes:
Use Eye-Catching, High-Quality Images
The competition is fierce, so you’ll need bright, appealing visuals that grab attention quickly.
Use images of prizes (like iPhones, gift cards, or vacation spots) with clear, high-contrast text highlighting a simple message like “Enter to Win” or “Don’t Miss Out.”
Test Different Formats
While image ads may not convert as well as video for everyone, some audiences still prefer simpler ads. Testing helps you see what works best.
Start with a few variations—some with just a prize image, some with people interacting with the prize, and maybe even some showing excitement or surprise to create urgency.
Use Bold, Clear Call-to-Actions (CTAs)
A strong CTA like “Enter Now” or “Win Big” can drive engagement by giving users clear instructions on what to do next.
Place your CTA prominently on the image ad itself, making sure it’s easy to spot without overwhelming the visual.
Test Simple Animations
Simple animations can give image ads a boost by drawing the eye without the full production of a video.
Try a basic gif or animation that highlights the prize (like sparkling effects on a gift card or slight zooming in) for a more dynamic look.
Focus on Targeted Audiences
Image ads can perform well if you’re reaching the right audience. A less engaged audience is more likely to scroll past.
Use lookalike audiences or retargeting to find people already interested in similar sweepstakes or prizes. Narrow your targeting to ensure you’re hitting motivated users.
Use Strong Headlines and Descriptions
A compelling headline in your ad copy can drive interest, even if the image is simple.
Focus on urgency and exclusivity in your headline, like “Limited Time Offer” or “Only a Few Entries Left!”
Leverage Retargeting for Higher Conversions
People might click your ad out of curiosity but not convert on the first visit.
Set up retargeting campaigns that show users who didn’t enter the sweepstake another image ad with an “Almost There” message to remind them to finish entering.
Optimize for Mobile
A lot of traffic for sweepstakes comes from mobile users.
Ensure your image is optimized for mobile—use less text, larger fonts, and make sure it looks great on smaller screens.
If you’re just starting, it’s worth running image ads alongside video to see what performs best for your specific offer. Sometimes, image ads can outperform when the message and design are right, and testing is the only way to know for sure. Keep an eye on your metrics, and don’t be afraid to adjust based on performance. Good luck, and let me know if you have more questions!
