Adequate Payout for Online Writing Contests: Setting the Right Reward

When participating in an online writing contest, many aspiring writers tend to overlook the prize money. For them, the act of competing and possibly winning is the primary goal. This perspective is understandable, as the experience, exposure, and bragging rights associated with winning a contest can be substantial rewards in themselves. However, the question arises: how much is a reasonable payout for these contests? This article explores the ideal amount of prize money to attract serious participants while maintaining the integrity of the event.

Setting the Right Reward

The prize money in a writing contest can vary widely, from nothing at all to substantial sums. While some may argue that a writing contest’s true value lies in the act of creating and sharing one’s work, the financial incentives can have a significant impact on the quality and quantity of entries received. A well-thought-out payout can help attract a broader range of talent, offer a level of professionalism, and enhance the overall credibility of the contest.

Implications of Prize Money

Assuming a writing contest’s primary goal is to foster and recognize quality writing, the prize money should be substantial enough to motivate participants without encouraging a flood of low-quality submissions. A payout of $10 might seem appealing to attract more entries. However, this amount is likely insufficient to discourage poor-quality submissions.

Quality vs. Quantity

The quality of the submissions is often more important than the sheer number of entries. A modest payout can still attract writers who are serious about their craft and eager to showcase their talent. Conversely, a higher payout risks diluting the quality of the entries, as participants might enter solely for the financial reward rather than the artistic challenge.

Striking a Balance

Determining the right payout involves considering several factors, including the size and reputation of the writing contest, the target audience, and the genre or category of the contest. Here are some points to consider:

Reputation and Notoriety: Contests hosted by reputable organizations or well-known literary journals might warrant a higher payout to maintain the perceived value and prestige of the event. Talent Attraction: For smaller, emerging contests or those targeting a niche audience, a lower payout might be sufficient to attract talented writers who are less likely to enter contests solely for the money. Genre Specificity: Payouts might differ based on the type of writing being sought (e.g., poetry, fiction, non-fiction) and the perceived market value of that genre.

Case Studies

To illustrate, let’s consider two examples:

Example 1: Literary Journal Contest

A literary journal contest that targets emerging authors might offer a smaller prize, say $50 for the first place, and around $20-$30 for honorable mentions. This approach ensures that the contest is accessible to a wider range of participants while still providing a meaningful reward for the top entries.

Example 2: Large Scale Writing Competition

A larger, more high-profile writing competition might offer a substantial first prize of $1,000 and a second prize of $300. Such a payout not only attracts a diverse pool of talented writers but also enhances the contest’s overall credibility and appeal.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the financial aspect is an important consideration in any writing contest, the appropriate payout should be carefully balanced to ensure the integrity and quality of the submissions. A reasonable payout can help attract serious participants and enhance the contest’s reputation. By setting the right reward, organizers can foster a competitive yet fair environment that values high-quality writing.

Recommended Reading

For more insights into managing writing contests effectively, consider exploring articles on contest organization, writing tips, and best practices for maintaining contest quality. Additionally, staying up-to-date with trends in the literary and writing community can provide valuable perspectives on contemporary issues and expectations associated with writing contests.