Writing feedback: who and what should you ask?

Asking for writing feedback is an art.

First, you have to find people willing to read your masterpiece (fun tip: if you’re asking someone for feedback on your novel or short story, say you’ve based a character on them.  Even if you haven’t).

Then, they have to give you considered and insightful feedback that not only improves this piece of writing, but also helps you become a better writer in the future.

The good news is, once you know who and what to ask, that’s exactly what’s going to happen.

Writing feedback: the “who”

Finishing a cared-for piece of writing is exhilarating.  You’ll probably want to tell the whole world about it.  But whatever you’ve written, be it website copy, a short article or a lengthy book, DON’T do a random ‘call-out’ for reviewers on social media.

If you do, you’ll receive a mixed bag of responses from different people.  Some may not be interested, but feel obliged to review your writing just because they know (and like) you.  These are the ‘wrong’ feedback-ees.

The ‘right’ feedback-ees are genuinely interested in what your writing is about.  They’re also willing to read and offer honest insights on it.  You can narrow them down by finding and approaching them directly (be prepared for a few ‘no’s), or using social media to explain who you’re looking for in more detail.

How many people should you ask for writing feedback? 

“If everyone who reads your book says you have a problem… you’ve got a problem and you’d better do something about it.” (Stephen King)

In On Writing, Stephen King reveals that he sends his completed manuscripts to between four and eight trusted people who have read his work before.  Then he watches for similarities.  If all his readers home in on one thing, that’s where he needs to do some extra work.  Otherwise, he has a collection of subjective opinions that he can do what he likes with.

It’s for exactly this reason that you shouldn’t ask too many people for writing feedback.  The process of sifting through all of their comments could take you longer than the writing itself!

Writing feedback: the “what”

“Most of all, I’m looking for what I meant…” (Stephen King, again)

Sending a story or an article with a vague “what do you think of this?” can strike fear in even the most experienced reviewer’s heart.  So, identify what you need to know first.  Then, ask questions that will help you find it out.

You’ll probably want feedback to be centred around the main point covered by your writing.  As in: does it convey the right message?  Are there any story-gaps?  Does this particular character or scene work?  What’s the biggest takeaway from this article?

Asking specific questions (not too many) means your feedback-ees will know exactly what you’re looking for.  This will help them structure their comments and feel confident that they’re helping you.

Get better at writing AND writing feedback!

My six-week online course, the Wondrous Writing Hub, starts on Thursday 26^th October.

You’ll make progress on a writing project you care about, as well as offering feedback to other budding writers, as part of a small and supportive group.

(You’d be surprised by how often giving feedback to others helps improve your own writing).

If you have any questions – or you’d prefer me to do the writing for you! – just get in touch.