It cannot be overstated: Critique groups are vital for writers. The critique group is to a writer what coaches are to professional sports teams. If you want to play (write) at your best, you need them.
Many critique groups are meeting virtually, but good critique group etiquette is still as important as it ever was – if not more so. Whether you’re joining your first group or your fifty-first, it’s never a bad idea to brush up on some of the often-unspoken rules of critique groups. Here are a few do’s and don’ts when it comes to being the kind of critique group member people want to have around.
Critique Partner DOs:
Ask the group leader about expectations before your first meeting. How many pages should the writing sample be, and should you share it before or during the meeting? If you will be sharing electronic documents, what file format is preferred?
Ask each member what kind of feedback they are most interested in before you read their work. Some are interested in general reactions; others may be trying to solve a specific problem. Tailor your feedback to help each writer achieve his or her objectives.
When giving feedback, be as specific as you can, and comment from your own perspective. For example, “I wondered if this character might have a stronger response when his little sister fell,” is more constructive input than “Needs better characterization.”
Be considerate and helpful. No matter what type of feedback you offer, consider how you would feel if you were the one receiving it. Deliver every comment, whether critical or complimentary, thoughtfully and with care for the receiver.
If you have time, organize your comments. Prioritize them into “big bucket” and “little bucket,” or sort them by story component. Try to help the writer gain a sense of what problems might prevent their manuscript from getting a second look from an agent or publisher.
Critique partner DON’Ts:
When you receive criticism, don’t freak out. Criticism of your work is not the same as criticism of you as a human being, so do not treat it as such. Try not to take any comments as a judgment of your value or worth, because they are not. They’re notes from a fellow writer about how they reacted to your work product.
Don’t obsess but do notice trends. If you get certain types of feedback consistently, there’s a reason.
Try not to brush off the good things. If you’re like me, you are your own harshest critic. Learn to graciously accept compliments.
Remember to be respectful of the group’s time. Make an effort to be on time and prepared. Everyone understands that life happens, but if you’re going to miss a meeting or be late, let your group leader know.
Stay on topic. This falls under “be respectful of the group’s time,” but it is worth mentioning. Most groups have a limited amount of time, which means if you want each member to receive feedback on their work, the entire group must stick to the same agenda. Don’t hog the group’s time with tangential discussions, irrelevant questions, or personal stories. Stick to the task at hand, which is critiquing your fellow writers’ work.
These are just a few things I’ve learned over the years in various critique groups. The most productive groups are the ones who set clear expectations about group behavior early. It’s easier for everyone when they know what to expect.
What’s your critique group like? Do you share a set of guidelines or group practices, so everyone knows what to expect?
Kell McKinney earned a B.A. in journalism from the University of Oklahoma and an M.S. in documentary studies from the University of North Texas. She’s a part-time copywriter, double-time mom and wife, and spends every free minute writing and/or hunting for her car keys. Connect with her on Twitter @Kell_McK or kellmckinney.com.
