The Science Fiction Short Story Contest

Isn't there a tier to climb in building a successful contest?

The few most successful contests seem to combine a group of like-minded authors, a forum to share gossip, nosebleeds from failed attempts at wins, jokes about each other's latest flag waving, and the contest itself. Not many contests manage to reach that high plateau.

There seems to be a standardized formula for contests that last. An interesting genre hook, easily understood instructions, prompts that inspire writing, and winner rewards. Some add offering reviews to the mix. I haven't seen much variety among contests other than that.

WDC allows most members to share a free monthly award to anyone of their choice. This can be used, along with the right amount of points to lure hopeful writers into the standard contest.

One quality that separates contests are the judges running the show. Some manage to become personalities. They connect with writers in multiple ways. Adding a signature link to their contest in emails is one common option. Reaching out beyond the contest such as participating in blogs of people you may want to enter your contest makes a personal connection.