Hello! I actually did a couple vlogs about this very subject! But the first thing I'll tell you is to NOT go into a competition, but instead to open mic first. The reason being is that if you compete for your first poetry performance and get crushed, without really knowing why, then it'll only frustrate and discourage you.
But by testing out pieces at an open mic event, you can gauge the audience reaction so you can know if you need to edit your piece or tailor your performance. Everyone does it, from pro slam champs to the rookies, field-testing at an open mic is your MAJOR key to success!
And as mentioned, links. Take care and crush shit!
EDIT: If you're looking for literature on the subject, I highly recommend Marc Kelly Smith's book, Take the Mic: The art of performance poetry. There's a copy of it in my local library, so hopefully there's one at yours too, since it's a pretty quick read!
A book you HAVE to get if you're into learning about the craft is this beaut: