The perks of winning an interior design contest are plentiful, from prizes, prestige, and visual aids for marketing to networking and media coverage opportunities.

But there are pros to simply entering a design contest as well. Knowing you want to participate in one can push you creatively, force you to keep your portfolio tidy and updated with professional photography, and encourage you to stay connected with industry organizations.

Whether you’re planning to submit an entry for the first time or you’ve participated in multiple contests, we’ll share tips anyone can use to boost their chances of taking home a title.