I’ve paid to enter some contests. I don’t mind it when I win, but it’s a double hit when I don’t.
I’ve paid from $1 to $20, and each time they gave a compelling reason why I needed to compensate them to consider my work. And each time I’ve felt duped afterward.
Going forward, the only reason I’ll pay to enter a contest is if I’ll receive feedback on my submission. So far, I’ve never seen this service offered in the contests I’ve considered.
Also, beware of bogus contests, whose only purpose is to make money for the contest owner through the submission fees they collect. Research contests carefully, and steer clear if you have concerns.
2 replies on “Should You Pay to Enter Contests?”
I entered some contests with fees through Romance Writer’s Association and I always get feedback from judges. But, often the comments are discouraging because they contradict one another. I’d rather use paid Beta readers then spend money on contests. I’ve decided that I will only enter contests if I am submitting my entire work, not just first chapters.
It’s good to hear from you, Sienna!
Receiving feedback is the first hurdle, and determining if it’s usable or not is the second.