Interview with Bojoko's New Bingo Expert

In our previous interview, Kati Saari shared her extensive knowledge and insights on the world of slots. Today, we catch up with her again to discuss her new role as Bojoko's new bingo expert. Kati has been integral to Bojoko's bingo vertical since its launch in 2023, but she is now taking on the role full-time.
In this interview, she discusses her new role and affiliate insights for bingo sites in the UK in general.

It's great to have you back for another interview. Last time we spoke about slots, now you've taken over the bingo vertical at Bojoko. How has this transition been for you?

Thank you! It's been an exciting transition, though one I have been preparing for. Along with my other duties, I have been working on our bingo vertical since we launched it last year. I've always had a passion for bingo, and being able to dive deep into this vertical has been incredibly fun and rewarding. Bingo has a unique charm and community feel that I absolutely love. Once we expanded our focus on bingo and needed a full-time bingo expert to review and vet sites, I did not hesitate to take on the role.

Can you tell me a bit about what your role as Bojoko's bingo expert consists of?

First and foremost, I curate and review bingo sites to ensure they meet our rigorous quality standards. This process begins with an initial assessment of the site's usability, game variety, and overall user experience. I spend considerable time testing each site, playing various bingo games, and exploring the different features available.

Each review involves a thorough verification process where I check for licensing and regulatory compliance to ensure that the site operates legally and ethically. I also evaluate the security measures in place to protect players' personal and financial information. Additionally, I examine the site's customer service responsiveness and effectiveness by interacting with its support teams through various channels.

Furthermore, I pay close attention to the bonuses and promotions available. This includes evaluating the fairness and transparency of the bonus terms, the value of the promotions, and how well they cater to bingo players specifically. 
In addition to site reviews, I provide insights and recommendations for our users. This involves writing detailed guides and offering tips on how to get the most out of their bingo experience. 

I also monitor the latest trends and innovations in the bingo industry to keep our content fresh and relevant. This means staying updated on new game releases, software advancements, and changes in player preferences.

Speaking of trends, what innovations in online bingo are you most excited about?

Online bingo has so much room for innovation compared to traditional bingo. One of the things I love seeing is the integration of mini-games and chat features, which enhance the game's social aspect. Pragmatic Play, for instance, has some fantastic software that's great on mobile and includes these interactive elements. Their Bingo Blast game is a personal favourite of mine because it's so fast-paced—about 3-4 times faster than regular 90-ball bingo.

What personal opinions or experiences have influenced your approach to the bingo vertical at Bojoko?

I know what it's like to be on the player's side, and I use that perspective to ensure our content is relevant and helpful. I appreciate user-friendly bingo software and often play on my phone, so I am very aware of any shortcomings here. Pragmatic Play's software, for example, stands out to me because of its mini-games and social aspects, which make the experience much more enjoyable.

In a previous interview with Christoffer Ødegården, we discussed the importance of payment methods in the iGaming sphere. Are payment methods still key for bingo sites, and if so, which are most important to appeal to a wide range of players?

Absolutely, payment methods are crucial for all iGaming sites. They play a big role in the overall user experience. Players want options that are convenient, secure, and fast. For bingo sites, offering a variety of payment methods is essential to cater to different preferences. 

Just as for online casinos and betting sites, we have dedicated pages showcasing the bingo sites offering each popular UK payment method. It is largely the same payment methods that are key for casino and bingo players. Not having PayPal, for instance, is a big red flag. It also means you won't be listed on our overview of UK bingo sites that accept PayPal. The same goes for similar pages from our competitors.

Other popular methods include pay-by-phone solutions, Paysafecard, ApplePay, and e-wallets like Neteller and Skrill. Additionally, supporting traditional methods like Visa and bank transfers ensure great player experience. 

What can bingo sites do to stand out in a crowded market?

Bingo sites need to capture players' attention. One way to stand out is by offering attractive bonuses. Going above the typical 100% match bonuses, which can seem boring, is crucial. Consider bonuses of 150% and up. These bonuses always stand out and convert better, even if the bonus amounts are lower.

Sites should consider offering bingo-specific bonuses like free bingo tickets and passes for bingo rooms. I'm quite disappointed when gambling platforms treat bingo as an afterthought. A dedicated focus on bingo with tailored promotions and a vibrant community can make a significant difference.