Starting an online writing group involves planning, finding members, selecting technology, spreading the word, and hosting the first meeting.
Based on the reference provided (dated April 3, 2020), here are the key steps to start an online writing group:
Steps to Start Your Online Writing Group
Step 1: Define Your Group
The first crucial step is establishing a clear vision for your group. Think about:
- What type of writing? (e.g., fiction, poetry, non-fiction, specific genre like sci-fi or romance)
- What are the goals? (e.g., critique, accountability, writing sprints, skill-building, support)
- What's the structure? (e.g., weekly meetings, asynchronous feedback, specific word count goals)
- What's the size? (e.g., small intimate group, larger community)
Having a clear definition helps attract the right members and set expectations.
Step 2: Find Other Writers
Once you know what you're looking for, it's time to recruit members.
- Reach out to writers you know.
- Post in online writing communities or forums (respect group rules!).
- Use social media platforms related to writing.
- Check local writing organizations that might have online chapters or members looking for groups.
Look for writers whose goals and interests align with your group's vision.
Step 3: Determine Your Technology Needs
Online groups rely on technology for communication and collaboration. Consider:
- Meeting Platform: Where will you hold live video calls? (e.g., Zoom, Google Meet, Skype)
- Communication Tool: How will members chat and share updates outside of meetings? (e.g., Slack, Discord, WhatsApp, Facebook Group)
- File Sharing/Critique Platform: How will members share work for feedback? (e.g., Google Drive, Dropbox, dedicated critique software like CritiqueMatch)
Choose tools that are accessible and easy for your intended members to use.
Step 4: Get the Word Out
Promote your group to potential members.
- Write a clear description of your group, highlighting its focus, goals, and meeting structure.
- Share this description on the platforms where you are searching for writers (from Step 2).
- Create a simple sign-up process (like a Google Form) to gather interested writers' contact information and maybe ask a few questions to ensure fit.
Example Posting Content:
"Starting an online Sci-Fi critique group for emerging writers. We'll focus on submitting chapters for feedback and setting writing goals. Meeting weekly via Zoom, text chat on Discord. Looking for committed members!"
Step 5: The First Meeting
The initial meeting sets the tone for the group.
- Welcome and Introductions: Allow everyone to introduce themselves and share their writing interests.
- Review Group Guidelines: Discuss the vision, goals, structure, and expectations (e.g., critique process, confidentiality, attendance). Get group buy-in on key rules.
- Plan Next Steps: Schedule the next meeting, assign the first critique slots, or set initial goals.
- Tech Check: Ensure everyone can access the meeting platform and communication tools.
Make it welcoming and productive to encourage ongoing participation.
Here is a summary table of the steps:
| Step | Action | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| 1: Define | Establish group focus, goals, structure, and size. | Type of writing, goals, frequency, member count. |
| 2: Find Writers | Recruit members who fit the group's vision. | Existing contacts, online communities, social media. |
| 3: Determine Tech | Select platforms for meetings, chat, and file sharing. | Accessibility, ease of use, required features. |
| 4: Get Word Out | Announce your group and attract members. | Clear description, sign-up process, relevant platforms. |
| 5: First Meeting | Kick off the group, set expectations, and plan. | Introductions, rules discussion, scheduling, tech check. |
By following these steps, you can build a functional and supportive online writing community.
