The Value of a Critique Group
As you start planning to put words on paper, you might want to start thinking about joining a critique group. A critique group is two or more people who have joined forces and decided to support each other's writing career. Different groups set different guidelines, but most of them do the following: read each other's work and offer constructive feedback, help brainstorm ideas, share knowledge, and basically help each other through the writing process.
Writers are so often blind to their own strengths and weaknesses, while another writer can easily see weak areas and point out strengths. A critique group or partner can be tremendously helpful in helping you achieve success. While you may think a group needs someone with more experience, and that can be helpful, two people who are both learning and sharing knowledge can offer substantial benefits to each other. Basically, two heads are stronger than one. It also bears noting that each writer comes into the craft of writing with different strengths and weaknesses. Some people may be naturals at characterization, while others may excel at plotting.
The best place to find a group is within a writing community. Join writers' organizations and don't neglect to look to the online groups. A lot of organizations offer monthly newsletters where you can post your interest in forming a group. Another good place to connect with other writers is in adult continuing-education writing classes.
Don't confuse a writer's organization and a critique group. A writer's organization usually offers speakers and advice at regular meeting intervals, but joining an organization such as Romance Writers of America does not automatically supply you with a critique partner.
It is best to start every critique group on a trial basis. Finding the right group is like buying a new pair of jeans. You might have to try on several different brands and styles before you find the one pair that feels right and fits your body shape.
Just as the right group can be tremendously helpful, the wrong one can be terribly harmful. One way to make sure a group is a good fit is to start off on the right foot by talking about expectations and setting critiquing guidelines and rules. Rule number one: treat your writing partners with the same respect you expect for yourself. Rule number two: respect every writer's right to agree or not agree with any criticism.
Criticism can be difficult to take, even when it's constructive, but dealt harshly, it can be detrimental to one's love of the craft. If a group doesn't feel right, bow out gracefully. And remember: just because one group didn't work, doesn't mean the perfect critique partner or group isn't out there.
