Writing Contests
Why contests?
It's time to share what is hidden in your writing journal! Submitting your work to contests, locally and nationally, is another way to share your work, network with other writers, and get published. Often contests publish the winners in a short chapbook or collection that is then available for purchase. Contests are offered for a variety of genres and are put together by many different organizations. Some are judged by a jury of writers, and others may be judge by public votes. Most offer cash prizes for top winners. It all depends on the contest. The resources on this page will help to get you started!
(If you are accepted to a contest, make sure to include that in future query letters!)
(If you are accepted to a contest, make sure to include that in future query letters!)
Start small.Competition is almost always part of a writer's life once they begin pursuing publication. As a new writer, start with smaller contests that are juried by local writers. You will likely have a greater success rate as these contests receive fewer entries. It's a bit easier to get noticed!
These local contests are in Michigan, but many cities will have local contests. Check with your library, local bookstores, local art events, or area colleges to see what's available for you!
|
Then think big.As your success rate of publication grows locally and as you begin to network and workshop with other writers, chances are your skills as a wordsmith will take on new strength. When you have that polished piece you are particularly proud of, it's probably time to look into national contests!
There are many national contests out there! The hardest part can be finding the right one for you. Here are some starting points:
|
Contest Scams to Avoid
It can be tricky to tell legitimate websites from scam contests. The blog, Winning Writers, offers a list of poetry contest websites and contests to avoid. Winning Writers has been rated as one of the "101 Best Websites for Writers" by WritersDigest.com.