Answers to Questions Regarding Writing Contests
by Suzan L. Wiener

I always had questions about contests and to find out the answers about them I asked my husband, who was a former editor. He used to judge contests and knew all the answers. Below is my interview with him.

How do I know which writing contest to enter?

A great way of knowing which contest to enter is to look in your Writers' Market. They have an entire section, toward the back of the book, giving you addresses, amounts, etc. of the contests. It's really a treasure trove of information. Also, I found the best contests to enter are the ones most geared to your interests.

A factor to consider is the entry fees, some of which are quite steep. Also, the prizes may not reflect the amount charged for the contest. For instance, they'll pay for first prize $25 when their entry fee is $15. A better contest to enter is when the first prize is $300 and the entry fee is $15. What I would consider before spending money on a contest is whether it's in my state. It doesn't have to be, but that's a plus. They tend to look more kindly at local entries.
 

How do I know if the writing contest is legitimate?

In general, most contests are reputable, especially if they've been around for a long time. Some contests, though aren't, and only time will tell. It's also a good idea to ask your fellow writers about them. They can tell you if one is good or not. Even if some people don't think it's the greatest, if it's free, enter.

How can I write winning entries?

As with any type of submission, study past entries that won. They might have a winning entry booklet you can order. This way, you'll be able to see first-hand what judges want. Most importantly, write, write, write. Only then will you improve your chances of winning. Let others hear your poems out loud. If they like it, chances are the judges will too.

What's the best time to mail in an entry?

The best time to mail in an entry is when you feel it's your best effort. Waiting until the end of the contest can too often lead to missed deadlines. I jot down the entry date on a piece of paper and keep it next to my computer, so I don't forget. If it's very soon, I'll post it on the side of my printer, so I won't miss it. Entering on the last day, if the contest deadline is the postmark date, is okay—but don't miss the deadline date or it will be disqualified.

Why do they charge a fee for entering?

It's because a reading fee helps to pay the judges for their time and effort. When they charge a fee they know only the best writers will enter their work. If you think the reading fee is too high, don't enter the contest.

How will I know if my poem is a winner?

They will either notify you by mail or phone. On occasion, I have found out just by the contest sending me their publication and a check in the mail. Enclose a self-addressed, stamped envelope (SASE) for a mailing list of winners if you'd like. Write on the SASE, "For winner's list only."
 

Finding Contests

• Viable contests include those sponsored by Writer's Digest, Christian Writers' Guild, American Christian Fiction Writers, and The Amy Foundation, to name just a few.
   
• If you own a copy of Sally Stuart's Christian Writers' Market Guide 2008 check the Contest section starting on page 590 (page 592 in the 2007 edition).
   
• Many local, state, and regional writing groups hold contests for members and non-members—check the guidelines for entry rules.
   
• Magazines, such as Byline Magazine and The Writer, sponsor their own contests or list those sponsored by others. Check your favorite writing magazine to see what they have to offer.
   
• To be sure you're not entering a fraudulent contest, check online sites such as Today's Woman Writing Community and Wind Publications.

©Kelly Huckaby

If I don't win the fist time, should I keep sending my entries to their contest?

Definitely. If your goal is to win, then you'll only have a chance by submitting and submitting again. Very few people win the first time out. It took me a long time to win first place, but it was well worth the wait. It was exciting to see my poem and byline published in a special book. If you keep trying, it can happen for you too.

If you follow the above, you should be able to reap the rewards of winning a contest. You'll have the great knowledge that your poem, etc. was the very best.