Why You Should Join a Writer’s Group

An author’s job is largely solitary. You and the computer: mano a mano in the struggle to put an idea to paper. But just because you work independently doesn’t mean you can’t benefit from the insight and support of a writer’s group. In fact, it’s one of the first pieces of advice I give my clients: find a writer’s group!

What is a Writer’s Group?

A writer’s group consists of authors who meet on a regular basis to share their writing and offer constructive criticism. Depending on the goals of the group, “author” can mean aspiring or published authors. I find that a mix of experience levels is very beneficial, particularly for new authors. Meeting frequency is debatable—I suggest at least monthly in order to build rapport and encourage writing consistency.

There are many ways to run the group, but here’s a suggestion for an effective meeting. Each writer should bring three to five pages of material. Make a copy for each member of the group. Read the work aloud, and then offer five to ten minutes for comments.

The pivotal element of the group is the feedback. No one likes criticism, yet critique is critical to improve writing. The group I’m a part of subscribes to the “Oreo cookie” method of constructive criticism: lead with a positive observation, suggest an area of improvement, close with another positive. Writing is deeply personal and sharing your work can feel like walking naked through a coffee shop. Build trust in the group by finding both the good and areas for growth in each piece read.

Benefits of a Writer’s Group

It’s good for authors to crawl out of their own heads for some face time with other people who understand the agonizing, exhilarating world of writing. Here are a few benefits of regular meetups:

• Accountability: If you struggle with discipline, knowing that you have a group expecting new material can help motivate you to work toward your writing goal.

• Camaraderie: From the loneliness of your office, it’s easy to feel like you’re the only writer in the world struggling with writer’s block. Meeting with other writers will help remind you that the struggle is real—and surmountable! Encouragement and new friendships are some of the best things about writer’s groups.

• Free Editing: Your editor will be a big fan of your writer’s group, who will point out typos, plot holes, and character development issues long before the manuscript hits the editing stage.

• New Perspectives: A character backstory that made perfect sense when you wrote it at 2 a.m. may actually end up confusing the reader. Your writer’s group will let you know!

How to Find a Writer’s Group

Unfortunately, Tinder for writer’s groups doesn’t exist, so you’ll have to find—or make—your own. Here are a few places to look.

• Libraries: Where better to find people who love books and writing than the library? Many libraries already support writer’s groups, and if they don’t, you could inquire about starting one. Leveraging their email list and online presence can help you spread the word quickly.

• Writing Networks: There are many national writing associations that support writer’s groups. For example, National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) has local associations with meetups designed to connect authors.

• Start Your Own Group: You know the saying: if you want something done, do it yourself! Post a message on your social media and message boards at the library and coffee shops. Spread the word however you can and see what happens! Some of the best groups start organically.

• Online Groups: While I would much rather see an author meet in person with other writers, online groups can work in a pinch. Facebook groups, Zoom meetings, and other online platforms can help connect authors to share work and ideas.
  

Conclusion

Sharing your work can be scary, but writer’s groups are a friendly way to learn how your work impacts readers. Finding a group of fellow authors who can commiserate with your hard work and challenge you to improve will only make you a better writer—and isn’t that the ultimate goal? Are you a part of a writer's group? What do you find to be the greatest benefit?