How to Host a Giveaway on FacebookIn Feburary 2016 21,

In Feburary 2016 21,
Before you begin, confirm that your giveaway is either a sweepstakes or contest and can't be considered a lottery. Lotteries are highly regulated, both by Facebook as well as by federal law, and consist of three elements: a prize, a chance to win it and payment -- like an entry fee or required product purchase -- for that chance. A contest eliminates the second element of chance since the winner must meet an objective -- writing the best essay, for example. A sweepstakes eliminates the third element since the winner need not make any payment for the win.
Let's Get This Party Started!
Facebook requires that your giveaway be hosted through a third-party application -- which essentially means entries are collected and a winner ultimately selected and contacted off-Facebook. Recommended apps include OfferPop, Woobox and WishPond, all of which offer a variety of templates, wizards and other special features. You can, for example, require a 'like' before a fan can enter the giveaway, request custom information -- like the individual's hobby or an opinion about a product -- and then send an automated email as a follow-up. The app will automatically run the giveaway in a new tab on your Facebook page.
Sharing Is the Name of the Game
Once the giveaway is incorporated into your Facebook page, expend some effort in promoting the giveaway and driving traffic to your entry form. Spread the word on your Facebook page, for example, and invite friends to 'share' the post with their friends. Send a reminder every few days and add a new photo from time to time to create and bolster buzz. For additional exposure, you can also add your giveaway to a free, online contest directory -- like Giveaway Scoop, Sweepstakes Advantage or I Love Giveaways -- and publicize the contest off-Facebook as well.
Rules, Rules...and More Rules
Be very clear in your giveaway rules so there is no room for argument once the giveaway has been awarded. For example, if you want to require that entrants post a link to a YouTube video of themselves dressed like a chicken and singing a nursery rhyme, spell it out in the contest's guidelines. Be clear about limitations -- state that the giveaway is limited to registrants 18 and over, for example, or require that entrants be residents of the U.S. -- and be clear and reasonable about the deadline, so fans have time to complete what's required.
In Feburary 2016 21,