While I wouldn't say that writers should never spend money on things like contests, they should be very alert to the fact that there are scams out there, ready to take advantage of writers' desire to get published. But how do you know if a contest is legit or a scam? Here are a few things to consider.
1. Do they promise publication?
If you only want to see your name in print, it may be worth it to you to enter this kind of contest. However, if everyone is ensured publication, chances are high it's a money-making scheme, not a legitimate contest. Be particularly wary of contests that publish large numbers of writers in very expensive books. They make their money by publishing everyone, betting that some percentage will buy the book. 2. If it's a book contest, is it sponsored by a reputable press?
Do some research. Do they have a marketing department? A publicist? Look at their list of books (they should have an online catalog). If possible, check out a few titles in a bookstore or library. Note the quality, both of the books themselves and of the writing. Is this something you would want your name on? 3. If it's not press-sponsored, what organization is promoting the contest?
Make sure it's a legitimate organization, preferably a nonprofit. Again, do some basic research. If it's an individual or a few individuals, beware. 4. Are the judges reputable authors?
Though good authors can be taken in just like anyone else, most self-respecting writers are careful to only lend their support to legitimate contests. They don't want to be associated with frauds, either, so if well-known authors are judging, it's probably a safe bet.5. Who else have they published?
Do you recognize the names? What are their backgrounds and what are they doing now? Also note if most of the winners share something in common. Did they all graduate from the same writing program, for instance? This could be a sign that the press or contest is run by people publishing their friends. While this isn't illegal, it does cut down on your chances of winning.6. Is the fee exorbitant?
Many book and short story contests will charge a fee to cover administrative costs. Though some worthwhile contests charge more, most fees run between $10.00 and $20.00. If it's free, still take care that the publication is one you would be proud of. [p]
You should never pay a reading fee to an agent. Legitimate agents read for free, as part of their job.7. Is there an advance or a cash award along with publication?
If you and countless others are paying money to enter the contest, some of the money should be given to the winner. Though some legitimate contests do not award advances to their winners, I don't submit to them on principle. A press can afford to give their authors something in exchange for their work. 8. Refer to reliable sources for contest information.
[i]Poets and Writers Magazine[/i] is one place to start, as is [link url=http://fictionwriting.about.com/od/reviews/gr/writersmarket.htm][i]Novel and Short Story Writer's Market[/i][/link]. You can also refer to the
short story contest listings on this site.
9. A vanity press publication is not a way to get noticed by a big press.
[link url=http://fictionwriting.about.com/od/publishingterms/g/vanitypress.htm]Vanity presses[/link] -- for self-publishing -- are great if your goal is to share your work with friends and family, or to promote some other aspect of your life or work. Generally, a self-published book will not help you get the attention of a major press. 10. Cultivate a community of writers.
Talk to other writers about the contests they apply to. Obviously the
Fiction Writer's Forum on this site is one place to start. (And if you have been scammed, I encourage you to post something in order to warn other writers.) Google the contest name and see what comes up. If you have a writing teacher or mentor, they will also be able to help you navigate the world of contests and awards.
