How to enter and win Facebook sweepstakes

Facebook has been one of the revelations of the past few years, an Internet phenomenon that has attracted a wide range of users. As a promotional tool it is invaluable, but have you thought about entering Facebook sweepstakes?

Sweepstakes are used by companies on Facebook, and elsewhere, to generate interest and some of the prizes on offer can be very attractive. With such an easy way of getting into sweepstakes with big prizes it is no surprise that more people are choosing to enter Facebook sweepstakes, so let's have a look at how to enter, and then - the important bit - how to win!

Entering is easy

Entering Facebook sweepstakes could not be easier, and can also be a lot of fun! The first step is to open a Facebook account, assuming you have not already got one. If not, remember to take care about the personal information you reveal online. Once you have your account you are ready to look for sweepstakes, and here's how.

There are many online lists of current Facebook sweepstakes - try running an internet search for sweepstakes forums where you can talk to others who enjoy online competitions - and the information there can be very valuable.

If there are specific companies that you follow you will be given access to their sweepstakes, and this can be a very good way of getting into the groove where online sweepstakes are concerned. The 'Like' button is a very useful tool at this stage, for to enter many sweepstakes you need to have 'liked' that company's page.

Once you have found a sweepstakes you want to enter, and read the rules of entry, it's time to get the wheels in motion and start playing! This is the fun part, but it's also a very important stage of the process.

Fill in the form

According to Facebook rules companies are not permitted to take information from others accounts, even if they have submitted a 'like' and indicated an intention to enter the sweepstakes. This is why you will have to fill in a form, online, in order to enter the sweepstakes. Take care to give all the information you are asked for, as this can be vital for the competition.

There are two further actions that you may be asked to make in order to enter the sweepstakes. The first is that you may be asked to give permission for your basic information to be read by the company. This is standard practice and should not be a concern.

Secondly, you may be asked to recommend the sweepstakes - or the company - to a number of your friends. If you do recommend the sweepstakes will be seen in their inbox, and it is their choice whether to enter or not.

Once you have followed all the steps you have entered your first Facebook sweepstakes, and the fun begins.

Tips on Winning Facebook sweepstakes

You are free to enter any sweepstakes you wish, but there are some good tips you can follow to enhance your chances of winning. Let's have a look at some of the more valuable ideas:

• Check the date the sweepstakes ends, and visit just before to enter. By looking at the number of 'likes' you can see how many people have entered. Fewer 'likes' means less entrants, and a better chance of winning for you!
• The more you enter, the greater chance you have of winning! Take some time each day to enter those you like the look of.
• There are different types of sweepstakes; those where you simply cast a vote will attract the most entrants, while the ones where you need to answer questions will be less heavily subscribed. Remember, the less entrants, the better your chance of winning!
• Register with sweepstakes forums. There are many on the Internet, and they are full of people who can offer you tips, advice and links to great sweepstakes.

So there you have it, a brief guide to entering Facebook sweepstakes and some advice on how to maximise your chances of success. Go ahead and start your sweepstaking fun!