Benefits of Writing Groups
How Fellow Writers Can Help You Improve Your Work
Many writers find kindred spirits through these groups that can help them reach their writing goals.
Writing is, by and large, a solitary profession. Usually, it's you alone in a room with just your story idea and a blank screen. You finally feel ready to start your writing career, but the doubts are starting to creep in. How do you get started? How should you organize your piece? And, when it's finished, how the heck do you go about getting it published? If you find yourself grappling with these nagging questions, it may be time to find a local writers' group. Need more reasons to connect with your peers? Read on!
Network, network, network! Writers' groups typically attract--surprise!--writers at who have had varying levels of success in their own careers. Whether it’s a novice who has yet to put pen to paper (but is working on it!) or someone who has written a number of books or articles, your group is sure to attract a good mix of fellow scribes. Don't be self-conscious or feel that you may not be good enough to get to know them--they're all there to learn and network, just like you.
Presenters who have been there. Writers' groups typically feature a speaker who gives a presentation on some aspect of the trade. If the group is after the widest possible range of members, expect to hear from editors, publishers, reporters, ghostwriters, novelists from every possible genre, playwrights, screenwriters, and more. Though initially you’ll probably attend the meetings featuring the topics that interest you most, chances are, you’ll learn something at each meeting that you can use the next time you work on your masterpiece. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Learn about writing resources. Familiar with the annual Writer’s Market book? Do you subscribe to Writer’s Digest? Looking to break into magazines but want to become more familiar with certain markets? Chances are someone in your group (or one of the expert speakers) can help you out!
Attend workshops and special events. What better way to learn more about the craft than to practice it? Make it a habit to attend any additional workshops or special events that the group may run.
Get constructive feedback on your work. As a writer, you must develop a thick skin. Start by showing your work to fellow group members whose opinions you trust—those who will be honest but supportive!--and ask them for feedback. See if there are opportunities to read a portion of something you’re working on at a regular meeting. Be sure to take notes on the members’ comments. Don’t take it personally—they’re there to critique your work, not you.
