Writing contests – why you should enter them

Writing contests – for awhile, the bane of my existence!

I remember very clearly the first writing contest I entered. When I got the results in the mail (pre “everything by email”), I waited until I was alone to open the mailer.

Matter of fact, I didn’t tell anyone I’d even entered the contest!

Fast forward to a few years ago – I started talking about being a writer more often, and I shared my ideas with a few people. I entered contests again (that first one shot my confidence down big time).

I “won” every contest I entered. No, I didn’t win first prize – or even second or third. I won because I finally realized what contests are for, at least for me.

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Winning writing contests

Entering writing contests is a HUGE step. HUGE. I mean it! It takes a lot for writers to put their “baby” out there for others to judge. Just like as parents we want everyone to love our babies and think they’re amazing, as writers we feel the same. And when someone doesn’t like what or how we’ve written, it’s a punch in the gut.

Usually contests offer prizes like money, a chance to have your work looked at in full, and my personal favorite, critiques by others.

What I’ve learned from critiques

What I finally learned is to look for similar critique issues. I don’t have a problem with grammar, and my spelling and ability to follow contest guidelines are all pretty good.

What I do have an issue with is conflict. It’s something that is mentioned in every judges’ remarks.

So I had an “a hah” moment! And I took my issue to Facebook. (Click the link on “conflict” above to read that post!)

Not to complain – NEVER complain about a judge’s comments on social media. It’s just not professional. And if you want to be a writer, then you have to grow up and learn to take constructive criticism (which every now and then feels like a punch in the stomach…).

I wasn’t looking for validation either. I was looking for ideas on how to incorporate conflict in my writing. If all the judges mentioned the same issue, then it was an issue for me!

General rules about entering writing contests

1. Read the rules! Always. Then read them again and make sure to follow them to the letter.
2. Make sure the cost is worth it to you. Weigh the cost vs. what you will get (prize, acclaim, critiques).
3. Are the judges people in your field of writing? For example: if I enter a cozy mystery in a contest, is it mostly made up of judges in the romance area?
4. Be realistic. What do you expect to earn or learn? If you don’t win the “grand prize,” what do you want to take away from entering the contest?
5. In an article in Writer’s Digest, they stress proofreading before entering: You may have read your story a dozen times, but consider a new technique, like printing out the draft, reading it aloud, or having someone else read it. 

What experiences have you had with writing contests?

I’d love to hear other people’s experiences! Have you entered a contest? Did you win? What did you learn about your writing?

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Read What is a Cozy? to learn more about cozy mysteries! Then, follow me on Pinterest, Facebook, and Instagram, and subscribe to my newsletter to keep up with news about my book and any special offers!

Hi, I’m Jen! I’ve been married 37 years, have 5 amazing kids and 2 adorable grandkids and one on the way. I homeschooled our three youngest children. I used to blog about homeschooling and taught Oral Communication as an adjunct instructor for over 5 years.

Jen Dodrill Writes is born of a passion of mine – to write a novel! When I’m not working, you’ll find me writing, spending time with my family, or curled up on the couch reading and drinking a mug of dark roast coffee. (Don’t forget to check out my mug shop – JDMugs!)