How an online poll campaign works
An online poll asks one clear question with a few answers. People pick their favourite with a single tap and, if you want, see right away what everyone else voted. It takes seconds to take part, which is why polls get so many answers.
In Scratcher you decide whether people can choose one answer or several, and whether the results are shown straight after the vote or only when the poll ends. You can show the number of votes, the percentages or both. Add pictures or video to the question and the answers to make the poll more lively, and use the page after the vote for a message, an offer or a link.
Like all our formats, the poll can have a sign-up form and a prize, so a quick vote also grows your newsletter list.
When to use an online poll
A poll is the right choice when you want a quick answer from many people, or when you simply want to start a conversation.
- Product development: let customers choose the next flavour, colour or design.
- Social media: a light poll is an easy way to get comments and shares. Read more about campaigns on social media.
- Sport and events: let fans vote for player of the match or the theme of the next event. See our tips on key moments for gamified campaigns in sports.
- Newsletters: add a one-question poll to your newsletter to get people clicking.
- Customer insight: find out what matters most to your customers before you plan your next campaign.
7 ideas for your online poll
- "Which one should we launch next?" Show two to four new products and let people decide.
- "Favourite of the season." Ask about the best summer drink, Christmas dish or autumn outfit.
- "Player of the match." Let fans pick the best player straight after the final whistle.
- "What should we talk about?" Let your audience choose the topic of your next post, webinar or event.
- "Guess what others voted." Ask people to guess the most popular answer, then show the result.
- "This year's trend." Ask which trend people think will win — and share the results afterwards.
- The weekly poll. One new question every week keeps people coming back.
Tips for an online poll that converts
Tip #1: Ask one clear question
A poll works because it is quick. Keep it that way.
- Ask one question that anyone can answer in a second.
- Use two to five answers — more makes it hard to choose.
- Write short answers or use pictures instead.
Tip #2: Show the results at the right time
Seeing the results is part of the fun.
- Show them straight away if you want people to compare their answer with others.
- Wait until the poll ends if you want people to come back, or if you plan to announce a winner.
Tip #3: Give people a reason to sign up
A poll on its own is quick. Add a prize draw for everyone who votes and ask for an email and newsletter permission. Set it up once with prizes on autopilot.
Tip #4: Use the results
The votes are real insight from real people.
- Share the results on social media or in your newsletter.
- Use them when you plan products, offers and content.
- Follow the votes in near real time in your campaign statistics.
Tip #5: Put it where people already are
- Show the poll as a pop-up on your website.
- Add it to your newsletter.
- Share it on social media or with a QR code at your event.
Tip #6: Go further when you need more
If one question isn't enough, try a survey with several questions. If you want to crown a winner among many nominees, the vote game is made for that, and a product battle pits two options against each other.
Make your first online poll
You can make a poll in minutes: pick a template, write your question and answers, add your brand and share the link. It's one of the quickest ways to get your audience involved.
