Getting feedback on your writing – part two – writing groups
So you’ve done what Auntie Rach has told you and you’re now pretty certain that it’s time to get some feedback. Let’s have a look at the different options available:
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Join a writing group – there are so many benefits to doing this, chief among them being that you’ll have someone to share your writing journey with, good and bad.
Depending on what’s best for you, you can either search for a local writing group where you meet up in person, or you can search online for one.
I’m a member of one in-person writing group and two online writing groups. All three have been invaluable on my writing journey, if only for the chance to commiserate and have a laugh with someone who gets what you’re going through.
You can find in-person writing groups by:
Enquiring at your local library or bookstore
Putting a notice up for fellow writers in your area on a cafe noticeboard (make sure you meet somewhere public!)
Asking friends if they know anyone who likes to write and wants to form a writing group
You can find other writers online via:
Facebook (writers under 21 can join a lovely writing group called Go Teen Writers)
Twitter by searching hashtags such as #amwriting and #writerslife and following writer events such as #storycrafter and #ontheporch
Absolute Write
Writer’s Cafe
Agent Query Connect
NanoWrimo
Some of the benefits of joining a writing group include:
Honest but positive critique. Writing groups want members to keep coming back, so they’re not likely to jump down your throat and be savage just for the fun of it (and if they do, hightail it out of there, because that shit ain’t cool).
A good writing group is a safe environment with a relaxed atmosphere, but also encourages helpful advice and guidance on how everyone’s writing can get better. If you’re not feeling ready for hard tacks, don’t be afraid to have a word with the group leader. They’ll be used to dealing with writers with varying ‘skin strengths’ and make sure everyone delivers their feedback accordingly.
(be wary when asking members of certain online forums for critique. Most members will give feedback in good spirit, but some salty souls may deal you some over-the-top savagery which can really take the wind out of your sails. Proceed with caution.)
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Inspiration: Writers groups (especially face-to-face ones) usually allow a bit of time for bouncing ideas off one another and floating rough ideas. There are often writing assignments and prompts that can jump-start a new story idea that you may not have otherwise considered.
Learning new techniques: You don’t have to just learn from the feedback you get on your writing. You can also pick up handy pointers from the feedback other writers get.
A chance to get your stuff published (if you feel comfortable): many writing groups will often team up and publish their short stories, poems and essays in the form of anthologies. This is a great way to get stuff that you’re proud of in front of readers, as the other writers in the anthology will be pushing and promoting it. Also it’s neat as hell to see your stuff in print!
A chance to make some chuffin’ writer friends: Let’s face it, as writers we tend to let our social life fall by the wayside from time to time. Meeting other writers in person is not only a fantastic learning experience, but it’s a chance to make friends with people who can identify with your struggle and will root for you.
I meet up with my Leeds-based writing group every May bank holiday for drinks, rants and general mayhem, and it’s always good fun. 
