If you want your submissions to the poetry contests to be successful then you need to do a lot of groundwork. Preparedness is the key to success when it comes to poetry contest participation. The first thing you need to do is make sure your poem is the best it can be. You need to edit your work as it is crucial to fix any awkward parts, unclear ideas, or mistakes. A well-polished poem is more likely to grab attention from judges or editors. You must have a checklist to prepare for your poetry contest submissions. Let us explore a few such items to be included in your checklist.
Have you checked the submission guidelines for the contest. Every contest has its own rules. Some free poetry contests want poems of a specific length, while others might have a theme that your poem must match. There may also be rules about the format, such as the type of font you should use or the file type you need to submit.
Does your formatting meet the contest guidelines? Make it easy for judges to read. If you are submitting online, check the file format too. It is also helpful to track your submissions. If you are submitting your poem to multiple contests, it is easy to forget where you have sent it. To stay organized, you can create a list or a simple document where you write down the name of the contest, when you submitted your poem, and whether you have received any feedback. This will prevent you from accidentally submitting the same poem to more than one contest at the same time, which is often not allowed.
In some contests you may need to submit your work through email, ensure that your poem is attached as a document, not pasted directly into the email body unless the guidelines ask for it that way. If submitting by mail, print your poem neatly and on good-quality paper, and do not forget to include your contact details. Check everything carefully before you send it off.
Remember that submitting to contests can be a long process, and it is normal to face rejection. Not every poem will win, but do not get discouraged. Many successful poets have been rejected many times before they were accepted. Regardless of whether with the context or not, always ask for feedback. It can help you understand what worked and what could be improved. Use the feedback to keep growing as a writer.
While waiting for a response, keep writing. Do not let one contest result define your confidence or your career as a writer. Every submission is a chance to learn, and every poem you write makes you a better poet. Keep honing your craft and stay positive. Remember, many great poets were once beginners who faced many challenges.
Preparing a poetry submission takes time and effort, but it is worth it. Make sure your poem is polished and follows the contest guidelines. Stay organized and keep track of where you have submitted your work.
