Failure to get beta readers' commitment :(

[Wish]

One of the biggest challenges for a newbie indie author is to go through learning all the self-pub processes.

The biggest disappointment for me so far is not being able to get the feedback from the beta readers who committed their time for my poetry book. I have given 5 weeks with an extra flex if they'd need more time. And yet it's true, life happens to all of us so I understand, but at the same time - isn't it respectful to politely decline me earlier on instead of giving me an impression that they have to "make time" a day before the deadline?

I can't really force anyone, let alone it's uncomfortable for me asking favours although I love giving them.

Now, maybe I am doing it all wrong - because I have trusted people who I thought wanted to participate? Any advice so I can learn from this better and improve how I choose my beta readers in the future?

[Iesha (In east shade house at...)]

Find people who have interest in poetry but give them a list of questions to answer so they could answer them as they read.

[Tomas]

I can't imagine if it works for poetry as well but, for full-length novels, swaps tend to work better because there's two-way interest in the commitment.

[Wish]

Iesha (In east shade house at...) wrote: "Find people who have interest in poetry but give them a list of questions to answer so they could answer them as they read."

I have chosen people who dig poetry and I made it as easy as possible from the beginning by giving them specific guidelines, questions and information as a welcome pack. It was one of the best advice I got from experienced indie authors and yet, it didn't help this time.

[Wish]

Tomas wrote: "I can't imagine if it works for poetry as well but, for full-length novels, swaps tend to work better because there's two-way interest in the commitment."

It does, that still applies to poets. I'm noting that down indeed.

[J.R.]

Unfortunately, there's a lack of common courtesy on both sides. It hasn't happened too often, but I've spent hours reading and commenting on a manuscript for free only to never receive even an acknowledgment from the author that they received the email with feedback.

Getting good and reliable free readers is like spinning a roulette wheel and unfortunately, you often get what you've paid for (i.e. nothing). It's a LOT of work to do a beta read, and many readers with good intentions start out gung-ho, then realize they've bitten off more than they can chew. It's not just you or something you did wrong.

If you need someone reliable, I would either swap (and go with the equivalent of a chapter at a time to make sure the other writer isn't a flake, that way you've not put in hours of work for someone who doesn't reciprocate), or, if you don't want to or can't invest the time, bite the bullet and pay someone. In terms of choosing paid readers, look for people with solid testimonials and/or message other writers and ask who they recommend.

[J.R.]

I'll add another advantage to swapping is 1) critiquing other writer's work will make you a better writer; 2) you're building a network; and 3) you may get lucky and find an experienced writer willing to take you under their wing and teach you the ropes, especially if you're planning to self-publish. Writing is a solitary activity, and many writers are introverts, but new writers really should try to build a network of other writers, especially more experienced ones who are willing to answer questions and share resources.

[Wish]

J.R. wrote: "I'll add another advantage to swapping is 1) critiquing other writer's work will make you a better writer; 2) you're building a network; and 3) you may get lucky and find an experienced writer will..."

Great insights, thank you very much. I love learning these things.

Thankfully, I got a few feedbacks now as well. Grateful for advices like this because it does help.

[J.R.]

I sent you a friend request in case you want to ever direct message me. I'm far from an expert, but I published my first novel in 2018, and I'm getting ready to publish my second. I would be happy to try and help out a new author if you need advice on self-publishing your book. (I am just not the right person or qualified to comment on poetry.)

[Mashaekh]

BETA READERS WANTED

Anyone down to read a chapter of a vignette series (fiction) on the effects of patriarchy on brown society?

[J.R.]

You’ll likely get more responses by starting your own thread in the appropriate folder versus posting on an existing thread in the discussion folder. If you’re willing to repay the favor by critiquing someone else’s work, post in swaps (and say what you’d be willing to read in return). If you want a free reader, try that folder, or if you’re willing to pay someone, there’s a folder for that too.

Good luck with your project.

[David]

Being on both sides, both a beta reader and a writer wanting readers, I know there is a lack of response sometimes, but i find the good outweighs the bad (ie: no response). I have had free beta readers worth gold.

As a beta reader, I ask for a few chapters first - to see if I am interested, but also to see if my comments are going to be of some use to the writer - I find it a good way to start..

[Tatum]

Wish wrote: "One of the biggest challenges for a newbie indie author is to go through learning all the self-pub processes.

The biggest disappointment for me so far is not being able to get the feedback from t..."

Are you still looking for beta readers? I also have a poetry book I am looking for beta readers for and would be happy to swap and give feedback! If interested please let me know :)