As someone who has joined various local writers' groups only to be disappointed time and time again, online groups may be an attractive alternative. That is not to say that all local groups are worthless- I'm sure there are some fine ones out there. The problem is that they can be difficult to find, and the best ones limit the number of people (and sometimes genre) for practical purposes, so they may not be available when you're ready to join.
Online groups have the advantage of convenience; log in whenever and wherever you want, and spend as much or as little time as you want. They also hold an appeal to writers who want to receive a critique of their work but don't want to actually face their critics. There is the added advantage of not having to critique pieces in which you have no interest (although generally, the more you critique, the more feedback you will receive in return). And for some, it's easier to give an honest written critique than to face someone and try to tell them what isn't working.
It's never a good idea to tell someone how great their piece is just to spare their feelings... or your own. Strive to give thoughtful, helpful feedback and be prepared to receive the same. Writers groups are not intended for people who only want to hear how wonderful they are, and if you find a group where that is the general practice, run! That kind of interaction may feed your ego, but it's not going to help you grow as either a writer or critic.
There are many groups who welcome writers of all levels and interests. One I found just by doing a simple Google search is called Critique Circle (www.critiquecircle.com) You can join for free, or upgrade to their premium service for $24/year . The web site is loaded with FAQ's on how their site works, and how to critique- there are even critique templates available to use. It's worth a look if you think a group might be right for you.
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Comments: 6
In my opinion, if a writer doesn't want critiques of their work, they shouldn't join a writers' group. If all that's desired is a pat on the back, what's the point of joining a group? I don't really consider groups where this is essentially the extent of the feedback to be "writers' groups". Those groups tend to be more social than anything else.
I am going to be posting an article on Friday in the Gather Essentials Writing Group on critiquing. I was taught in my writing classes that there is a correct way to critique that is non-offensive and non-judgmental. I've already had one member here tell me that there is no "formula" for critiquing, but I don't agree. If it's done correctly, there is a positive way to state both likes and dislikes (and a critique should contain both) in a constructive way.
As far as everyone being an expert, critiques are opinion based; no one is an expert. The receiver is free to accept or reject the critique (there's a right way to do that too), but it's usually helpful to consider the points made in a well-written (or verbalized) critique.
I'm trying to encourage members in the writing group to leave thoughtful, specific comments. My opinion is that those are most helpful to the author and more appreciated than a quick "Nice!" comment. This probably involves leaving fewer comments, but more meaningful ones. Of course I also encourage people who do not want a critique to state so at the beginning of their post. An unwanted critique is a waste of time-- for both parties.