Should I run contests on Cyber Monday?
Muhammed Tüfekyapan
Founder & CEO
TL;DR - Quick Answer
Complete Expert Analysis
Should You Run Contests on Cyber Monday?
Contests on CM are a high-risk, low-reward strategy when executed poorly. CM buyers have short attention spans focused on completing purchases - multi-step contest entries compete with that purchase intent rather than reinforcing it. But simple mechanics can amplify reach at low cost.
Contest Types: CM Fit Assessment
"Tag a friend" comment contest
Low riskSimple, shareable, drives reach. "Tag a friend who needs this - you'll both get a bonus discount code if we hit 200 comments." Low friction, extends your CM reach organically. Works on Instagram and TikTok.
Share-for-extra-discount
Medium risk"Share this post and DM us the screenshot for an extra 5% off." Creates referral-like behavior. Risk: hard to track and fulfill at CM volume.
Photo contest / UGC challenge
Not for CM dayRequires content creation from participants. Too high-friction on a day when buyers want to shop, not create. Better for the weeks before CM to build awareness.
Purchase-to-enter giveaway
Works well"Every CM order is entered to win [prize]." Low friction, adds perceived value to purchase, doesn't distract from buying. Make the prize genuinely desirable.
Rules for CM Contests
- ✓Keep entry mechanics to one step maximum
- ✓Make contest secondary to your main CM offer - don't let it distract from the sale
- ✓Have clear terms and fulfillment plan before launching
- ✓Announce winner within 48 hours post-CM
Better Alternative: Instead of a contest, use a referral mechanic: "Share your CM order on Instagram and tag us - we'll send you a bonus gift with your next order." Post-purchase engagement with no contest complexity, converts buyers into brand advocates, and creates UGC at zero cost.
Turn This Knowledge Into Real Revenue Growth
Growth Suite transforms your Shopify store with AI-powered conversion optimization. See results in minutes with intelligent behavior tracking and personalized offers.
+32% Conversion Rate
Average increase after 30 days
60-Second Setup
No coding or technical skills needed
14-Day Free Trial
No credit card required to start
With over a decade of experience in e-commerce optimization, Muhammed founded Growth Suite to help Shopify merchants maximize their conversion rates through intelligent behavior tracking and personalized offers. His expertise in growth strategies and conversion optimization has helped thousands of online stores increase their revenue.
Continue Learning
Discover more expert insights to accelerate your e-commerce growth
How do I write a Mother's Day cart abandonment recovery email?
A Shopify merchant wants to write effective cart abandonment recovery emails specifically tailored for Mother's Day g...
What is the best timing for a Mother's Day cart recovery email?
A Shopify merchant wants to optimize the timing of their Mother's Day cart abandonment recovery emails. They need to ...
Should I offer an extra discount in my Mother's Day recovery email?
A Shopify merchant is debating whether to include a discount code in their Mother's Day cart abandonment recovery ema...