Don’t write linearly: Don’t set out to write something from beginning to end. In this list, for instance, #s 2, 3, 8, 9 and 10 resonate the most for me and are similar to my thought process and practice of writing.

I find them helpful, however, to see where my experiences align with others and to gain new perspective. What speaks to one person might not to another. Top 10 lists are all a matter of the opinion. Contests that include critiques by judges are extremely valuable to improve your storytelling and evaluate whether to continue developing and marketing the story you submitted or chalk it up to experience and move on to new material. Also, w hat type(s) of promotion does the contest offer, and is there a solid web and social media presence?įeedback: You need to hear what others think about your work. Research what others have said about it. Review the list of judges.Įxposure: Make sure success in the contest will get people to take you seriously at the next level. Is the contest reputable? Find out how long its been around. Make sure the cost is in line with the size and reputation of the contest. Price: Most budding authors don’t have a ton of money to throw around. Here are the things I looked for when choosing which contests to enter: With each new honorable mention, second place, and outright win, I gained the confidence and inspiration to continue developing my craft.Įventually, m y entry into the Academy Nicholl Fellowships earned a semifinal finish, which led to my first book sale and a movie deal with 20th Century Fox. First, I chose regional contests and then expanded to national opportunities. I started by submitting short stories to contests, wrote and submitted my first novel (which is still in my desk drawer, by the way), and then moved on to screenplays. While I understand that this news is most exciting to my immediate family, it reminds me of how important contests were in building my writing resume and ultimately leading to my first deal. My 16 year old son just earned 1st Place for his composition in the Washington State Young Composer’s Project.

Bait by J. Kent Messum