Today’s post is written by Jen Dodrill. 

Have you joined or considered joining a critique group?

They can be very helpful in your writing journey. I’m in two different groups, and they have improved my writing in many ways. I’ve also learned how to give and use constructive criticism (essential to any writer).

Joining a critique group is a big decision for any writer serious about their craft. You’ll meet with a community of like-minded individuals—people striving to improve their writing through constructive feedback.

Like any community, critique groups have advantages and disadvantages. Let’s explore both sides to help you decide if joining one is right for you.

Advantages of Joining Critique Groups

Constructive Feedback: Yes, we’re going to jump right into this because one of the most significant advantages of critique groups is the opportunity to receive constructive feedback on your work. Your friends and family really can’t offer honest opinions. However, critique group members are fellow writers who understand the importance of detailed feedback.

In a positive, working critique group, other writers offer insights on plot, character development, pacing, and more, helping you identify blind spots and improve your writing skills.

Diverse Perspectives: Critique groups consist of writers from various backgrounds and genres. This diversity brings a range of perspectives to your work (and you want that!). What one member sees as a plot hole, another might view as a potential for deeper exploration. This strengthens your writing by exposing you to different styles and approaches.

Look for diverse backgrounds and genres in any group you’re in. One of my groups consists of fantasy and sci-fi writers and me. I write cozy mysteries and women’s fiction. This group offers amazing insight into what I write because they aren’t writing in the same genre.

Accountability and Motivation: Here it is, the dreaded word—deadlines! But guess what? Knowing you have a group waiting for your next chapter is a powerful motivator. Critique groups help you stay disciplined in your writing practice. Seeing your peers’ progress can inspire you to keep pushing forward with your own projects too.

Networking Opportunities: Joining a critique group introduces you to other writers who share your passion. These connections can lead to collaborations, mentorships, and even friendships that extend beyond critique sessions.

The critique group I mentioned above meets monthly via Zoom, but recently, we started having a “hang out” time on a nonmeeting day. Why? Because we like each other! It offers us time beyond critiquing to get to know each other better.

Networking within the writing community can also open doors to new opportunities, such as publishing leads or writing workshops. I’ve even asked a couple of people in my critique group to endorse my book.

Skill Development: By giving feedback on others’ work, you build your ability to analyze writing critically. This skill is invaluable for your own writing journey. It teaches you to identify strengths and weaknesses in narratives, dialogue, and prose.

Disadvantages of Joining Critique Groups

Compatibility Issues: Not all critique groups are created equal. Finding one that aligns with your goals, writing style, and level of experience can sometimes be challenging. Some groups may focus more on socializing than critique, while others may have members whose feedback isn’t what you’re looking for. Be open to trying a few until you find one or two that you mesh with.

Time Commitment: Participating in a critique group requires time not only for writing and revising your own work but also for reading and critiquing others. Think about the time you can spend before committing to a group.

Conflicting Feedback: What do you do when your group members provide conflicting feedback? My suggestion is that if two or more members mention a particular issue, pay attention. If it’s one person, and you don’t agree with their feedback, you don’t have to use it. Actually, you never have to use other people’s feedback, but I would suggest you give it a try.

Risk of Discouragement: Criticism can be tough. We pour our hearts into our work, and then someone says it’s not perfect. Critique groups require a certain level of thick skin to separate critiques of the work from critiques of the writer.

My advice: Over time, some writers become overly reliant on feedback from their critique group. External critique is valuable, but be sure to learn to trust your own instincts and voice.

Finding Your Ideal Critique Group

Now that we’ve explored the advantages and disadvantages of critique groups, let’s look at a practical process to determine if joining one is right for you.

• Step 1: Define Your Goals. What do you want/need from a critique group? Do you want feedback, different perspectives, and accountability?
• Step 2: Research. Look for critique groups that align with your goals as well as group size, meeting frequency, and submission guidelines. If you’re having problems finding a critique group, ask on social media.
• Step 3: Attend a Session. Many critique groups allow prospective members to attend a session as a guest. Take this time to see how they offer feedback and how it is received. Pay attention to the group dynamics and whether they resonate with your preferences.
• Step 4: Ask Questions. Don’t hesitate to ask current members about their experiences with the group. Inquire about how feedback is structured, the group’s communication style, and any expectations for participation.
• Step 5: Evaluate Compatibility. If the critique group aligns with your writing style and personality, go for it! But, trust your instincts—if something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to explore other options.

Joining a critique group can be an amazing experience for writers at any stage of their journey. Whether you’re looking to refine your craft, grow your network, or gain valuable, constructive feedback, the right critique group can provide invaluable support. However, weigh the pros and cons to ensure that the group you choose enhances rather than hinders your creative process.