Kickstarter is one of the most popular crowdsourcing websites in the world, enabling artists, writers, and entrepreneurs to kick-start bright projects by getting funding from normal people. While all kinds of users are active on Kickstarter, from video-game developers to comic book creators, the site can be particularly appealing for entrepreneurs with great ideas for startups but not much cash. If you too need funding for your startup, Kickstarter can be the opportunity you’ve always waited for.
It doesn’t offer you only funding, but also spreads the world about you, enabling you to build a brand and a following even before your product is out. The ease with which you can start a campaign, the flexible rewards system, and the ability to interact directly with your donors sets Kickstarter apart from other crowdfunding sites. But for your campaign to be a success, it’s important to take it seriously, plan things ahead, and consider a few tips.
1. Make Sure Your Campaign Page Looks Professional
Kickstarter lets you customize your campaign page in great detail, so you can convey your message effectively. Using high-quality graphics, including an enticing campaign logo, is a must.
Here’s what Steve Townsend, whose Kickstarter campaign raised $4,747 for his graphic-novel The Hood, has to say about the matter:
‘Look, people don't like to part with their money and don't do so for any campaign. Quality matters. The presentation has to have a certain level of professionalism associated with it, so potential supporters have confidence you will achieve your goals.
2. Tell A Compelling Story
Whether you’re trying to start a restaurant or a shoe manufacturing business, telling a good story – your story – gives people a reason to help you. Many funders on Kickstarter are more interested in helping to give birth to a great project or venture than in buying a product, and it’s good stories that move them. A compelling story is always honest. It’s the story of your dream. Don’t be afraid to put your photo or even a video of your on your Kickstarter page.
3. Give Your Backers Great Rewards
Take a look at any successful Kickstarter campaign and you will see that its creator has come up with enticing rewards, whether it’s limited editions of the product, additional content, posters, signed books, special access to features (for services), and so on. Make sure your rewards are rewarding; don’t ask for $100 donations for a book that’s worth just $15.
4. Be Honest And Direct
This is the most effective way to engage your community, to win their trust and support, to acquire many loyal followers. Matt Gilgenback, whose campaign for the horror-game Neverending Nightmares raised a whooping $106,722, offers this advice:
‘Show your trust by sharing details about the project – what it is you are doing and why. Engage them [your backers] with frequent updates and responding to comments and messages.’
5. Send Regular Updates And Newsletters
Not only will you keep your project fresh in your backers’ mind, but also encourage them to check your campaign page constantly. Don’t send impersonal, mass messages. Strive to create personalized emails, even if you have to write every one of them yourself.
Image Credit: [Flickr]
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