No matter what you do for a living or even for a hobby, practice always helps to improve your skills. When it comes to writing, this is possibly even more true. You need to spend time honing and working on your strengths, so they become even stronger. And, you need to be aware of your weak areas, so you know how to approach them, learn from them, and make them strong areas instead. That’s where writing partners come in.
Without feedback, sometimes it can be difficult to know your strengths and your weaknesses. It is easy to look through your own writing without recognizing an awkwardly worded phrase, a scene that doesn’t fit, or even basic spelling errors. With the need for feedback, what better way to get that feedback than by partnering with someone who is also looking to improve their writing? Keep reading to find out how to find a writing partner.
Where to Find a Writing Partner
If you have decided that you need to find a writing partner, the next part of your journey is to figure out where to find a writing partner. There are numerous ways and places to do so and includes the following:
Writing Groups
This should be the first place you look as those part of a writing group all have similar goals. All that is left is to find someone you click with enough to give you honest feedback. To find a writing group, simply type “writing groups near me” or “writing groups in ___” into google. If you are looking for a specific type of writing—fiction, playwrighting, or non-fiction—make sure to specify that in your search.
Literary Groups or Clubs
There are many options of literary clubs you can join, including:
- Book clubs. Not only can regularly reading books influence your style, give you fresh ideas, or help you push through a writing block, but you will find other like-minded people—including someone who may just be looking for a writing partner themselves. If “Googling book clubs near me” doesn’t come up with many options, check the billboard at your library or speak with librarians or employees at bookstores.
- Movie or cinema clubs. As with a book club, a movie club is a great place to meet like-minded people and feel out whether there are any other writers you could work with. Cinephiles are often a creative bunch, and you are sure to find a writing partner. You can find a movie club in your area by checking out sites like meetup.com, where you can even specify the kind of movies you are interested in.
- Gaming groups. Whether you enjoy roleplaying games, such as Dungeons and Dragons or video games, such as Minecraft, there are plenty of gaming groups you can join and get to know other people who just might have other interests and hobbies that line up with yours. This article has several ideas for finding a gaming group in your area OR how to start your own.
Local Theater Groups or Productions
You will meet lots of creative people with many skills, including those whose interest lies in writing. If you don’t relish the idea of being on stage in front of a lot of people, don’t worry, there are many jobs available that don’t require you to be in the spotlight. (Plus, it’s a great way to make some new friends).
Writing Classes
This is a great way to meet other writers who are looking to hone their skills. Some places to find writing classes available to you are your local community college and websites such as thumbtack.com, which will help you locate writing classes offered in your area. You can also look into taking online courses, including free ones offered by top universities.
Frequented Local Spots
If you regularly frequent places like coffee shops, libraries, bookstores, etc., in your community, start paying attention to the people around you. Take note of those you see most often and come to those places at the same time as you.
This next part may take a little bit of courage if you are an introvert, but once you’ve identified other regulars, introduce yourself. The best way to find a partner is to befriend people. You just might find other writers and, even better, a writing partner in the process.
How Do You Become a Partner in Writing?
Now that we have explored ways to meet other creative people and find a writing partner, the next thing to focus on is how to be a writing partner who other writers would be thrilled to work with. No one will be the perfect partner, but if you recognize your strengths and weaknesses, you can work to keep strengthening both. Some characteristics that make a good writing partner include the following:
- Be humble. Be willing to listen to critique and feedback without arguing or trying to prove a point.
- Have an open mind. Listen to your partner’s ideas about the story, the structure, etc., and don’t be afraid to share your ideas with them.
- Don’t dominate the conversation. Make sure you are giving your partner an equal opportunity to share their thoughts and ideas.
Final Thoughts
One of the most important ways to improve your skills as a writer is consistent feedback. The best way to get consistent feedback is to have a writing partner. Finding a writing partner may feel like an overwhelming process, but some great ways to start your search include joining creative groups in your community, such as writing groups, book clubs, movie clubs, or volunteering at a theater.
An important part of having a good relationship with your writing partner is to work on your skills as a writer. Some important things to focus on are being humble, being open to other ideas and suggestions for improving your writing, and making sure you are not dominating the conversation or your time together. You’ll become a better writer in no time!