The Controversy: Entering Big vs. Tiny Contests

[C.V. Smith]

I have a question that I'd like as many people as possible to respond to:

 

Do you think it's better to enter the small, unknown contests in hopes that your name may get out there if you win, or should you save your time and money and go for the bigger, more recognized contests?

 

Thanks for your help and input,

Cindy

[Iben]

Well it's certainly much more likely that you'll win if there's only 5 other people in the contest rather than 500

[Enbrethiliel]

+JMJ+

 

Cindy, if you're asking about contests hosted on a blog that let entrants win books, then here is my answer:

 

Ever since I won a big contest with over 300 other entrants trying to win the same prize, I've seen all giveaways as fun games of chance and enter all those I'm interested in. =)

 

But if you're asking about writing contests (which your comment about "time and money" makes me think you might be), then my answer is that I don't enter any of those at all! =P

[C.V. Smith]

Hi Enbrethillel,

Yes, I was referring to writing contests NOT on blogs, but rather contests that are sponsored by pubs, agents, established literary organizations, etc.  Why don't you enter any of them?

Cindy

[Enbrethiliel]

+JMJ+

 

I don't enter them because I'm not a writer. =)

[William (Bill) Torgerson]

I enter contests.  I won a script writing contest.  As far as getting your name out there.  Seems like there is no better time than now with social media to be online, be listening, and leaving comments.  Right?

[C.V. Smith]

Right, Bill!

Thanks, Cindy

[Rikki]

I don't know whether you are asking the right people here. As far as I am aware most book bloggers blog about what other people write, they are no writers themselves.

[Enbrethiliel]

+JMJ+

 

Rikki has a point, but there are quite a few authors on this forum. Perhaps the title of this thread should just be clearer, so that they know it's about their sort of contests?

[Jen Knox]

I enter writing contests from time to time, and i'd say it depends on the work. how confident you are in it. if you think it's competitive, enter the big ones. But, it depends on the contest. Are you thinking of one in particular?

[C.V. Smith]

Hi Jen,

I have written a historical-fiction mystery for middle school kids that I am trying to get published by a conventional publisher; however, I also have a collection of 20 pieces of poetry, prose or raps for kids in crisis in a totally different collection.  I guess I'm hoping that one of more of those to the right contest will bring interest to my novel.

Thanks for your comment and interest,

cindy

[Popin]

As long as there is a chance that I might win, whether it's a big or a small one, and I actually want the prize I'll enter.

[C.V. Smith]

Thanks, Popin, I agree!

Cindy