How to Join an Online Writing Group

Getting your writing seen is both a public and personal matter. For those of us who do not have time or desire to go to a face-to-face writers' group, then online communities could be the answer you seek. Some communities are free, but most are not. Think of the time, talent and energy you have to offer others. Some sites can offer perks, contests, rewards or let you earn part or all of your membership. If it is enough to encourage you to start writing, then your work is well worth it. Whether you just write for fun or career you will benefit. In any case, you could satisfy the burning question "am I a good writer?" People are all too happy to offer their critique. Instead of putting your best face forward at an in-person writing group, you will use your computer and the Internet to perform that task. This may help you start to find websites that will give you not only an audience but may be affordable, meet your needs and supply beneficial critique, guidance and resources. Having been on some websites for some time, let me be your guide!

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer
• Microsoft Office
• Internet service
• Time
• Money
• Fountain pen
• Typing skills
• Written materials such as poems, letters or stories
• Creativity
• People skills

1. Do a Google search for "online writing groups" or "virtual writers groups."
   Links are provided below of two groups you may find beneficial.
2. Decide on an amount of money you wish to spend to join the group. Join with a trial membership if possible. If you can earn a membership, try that. Look for sites that offer free contests and exposure for your writing. Think of it as your own private school. It will give you a frame of reference to see if you truly have what it takes to become a writer.
   
   You may want sites that offer a portfolio or some sort of layout of your work you can link back to for a friend, family, or a business.
3. An example of a writing magazine. Check the writers magazines for websites, classes and conferences that seek writers. Be wary of giving cash to companies you never heard of. Always do some research before making an investment in the site.
4. Perhaps your local writers' group or university knows of writers' groups that meet exclusively online, offer critiques and a mentor or would hold conferences. Check with them for more resources.
5. Gather.com. Though it is not just a writer's haven, you will find a huge audience and enjoy quality comments on your posts. It is free to join, with no obligation. This may be a good place to link to your website, showcase links and talk with other writers. There seems to be an abundance of advice on hundreds of topics. You can also join groups within Gather that will focus on your interests. If you post and comment often enough, eventually you will earn points good toward gift cards or converting to a cash option for higher point earners. You can be as involved as you like. Be prepared to make friends and deal with hecklers (see Resources below).
6. Go through the registration process on each site. Use an anonymous pen name, never your real name. Make sure your username also does not include any personal information such as name, valuable numbers, zip code or other names.
7. Writing.com. This will help you on many levels, whether it's flexing your writing muscles or developing a thicker skin. Here you will discover groups and receive money for memberships at different tiers. You decide what features you need. Memberships can be earned with reviews, contest winnings, and more in the form of gift points. Reviews and interaction may be hard to come by as you advance through the ranks. Here you will find an audience of serious writers, poets and those that only enjoy it as a hobby. There are links to other writing websites and an abundance of resources on here. Writing.com offers endless writing opportunities, exposure and activities for the asking (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• Keep your interactions brief and pleasant.
• Remember if people comment and review you, they often expect your opinion in exchange.
• Make connections that do not drain your time and resources and will be encouraging in your writing.
• Report any harassment immediately to the site moderators.
• Use your pen to record your favorite websites in a notebook and other notes. You can also keep a writing notebook with you at all times and transfer the information back to the computer as time allows.
• Do not use your last name on the Internet.
• Start slowly, get your feet wet.
• Be wary of sites that ask for hundreds or even upwards of thousands just to join their writing website or attend virtual writing conferences. If you want to attend or join anyway, charge your membership on a credit card in case the site does not deliver on their promises.
• Do not post names or personal details about other individuals on any website.
• Copyright any material you eventually wish to be published.