Gamification has become one of the most used marketing strategies in recent years, and the success behind it is simple—it motivates users to earn points and rewards simply by playing a game. Of course, the most famous example of gamification is the most well-known language app, Duolingo.
However, gamification is not limited to mobile apps. For example, e-learning platforms, such as TalentLMS, employ it to improve knowledge retention and make education less boring (or more interactive). In fact, the platform reported a 60% increase in engagement after this strategy was implemented.
Similarly, live casino platforms like NetBet Casino also offer a great model of how interactivity and immediacy keep users involved. Platforms like this one demonstrate how engaging real-time elements can be when designed with the user experience in mind.
As you can see, gamification can be implemented in each and every business industry. So, why shouldn’t small businesses take advantage of this as well? Here’s how SMBs can improve customer interactions with gamification.
#1 Loyalty programs
It may surprise you, but loyalty programs are one of the “ancient” gamification methods. With point-based systems, customers get rewards for different actions—purchases, referrals, competing profiles, and so on. These points can be exchanged for discounts or free products.
The other variation of loyalty programs is tiered rewards. What does it mean? Simply put, these systems motivate customers to spend (or engage) more to move to another level — silver, gold, or platinum. In most cases, the golden rule is that the higher the status is, the better the perks are—whether it is faster service, exclusive products, or our VIP experience.
#2 Interactive Features
Interactive features, like spin-to-win wheels or digital scavenger hunts, are relatively new. For example, spin-to-win wheels add excitement and unpredictability, especially if you prompt them with ChatGPT. This way, consumers can win discounts, loyalty points, surprise perks, or nothing – everything depends on one’s lunch here.
Digital scavenger hints, on the other hand, involve using apps or QR codes to guide customers through a series of tasks or locations. You remember Pokemon GO, right? For instance, scanning a QR code at one store can bring additional loyalty points to you, so why not try this one?
#3 Social sharing and competitions
In the age of TikTok and Reels, social media wins hearts (and not only Gen Z’s). One thing you can do is encourage customers to share milestones (like the badges earned) on Instagram or Facebook. This not only increases your business’s visibility but also creates a sense of community.
Real-time leaderboards are also an attractive option to track customer progress on achievements dynamically. .
Another thing to do is hashtag challenges. While it sounds like 2012, why not bring this trend back – amplify your reach and brand visibility, all of which comes with an increased sense of community.
#4 Unlockable content
For both service—and product-based businesses, you can consider exclusive rewards or seasonal themes. For instance, you can offer your customers (the loyal ones) early access to sales or, even better, limited edition products. And how can they achieve this? Gathering the points and rewards would give them this status.
And don’t forget about seasonal themes that go beyond Easter and Christmas. This can be with unlockable features, holiday themes, or special offers. Just keep it fresh and relevant to your target group.
Here you have it — your ultimate guide to implementing gamification strategies within the small business ecosystem. Gamification is one of the powerful tools for boosting engagement without requiring extensive resources. So, do it right, build emotional connections by creating fun and memorable experiences, encourage repeat purchases through rewards and point systems, stay unique to your values, and don’t copy your competitors.
