Today, Fable and the Verbivore have a candid conversation about the complications of requesting feedback and serving as a beta reader based on a real world experience we shared together.

Navigating the feedback process can be vulnerable, especially when we’re first sharing our words and when the work is especially close to us. From first hand experience, we share some truths about figuring out how to work effectively, what our unique process is for sharing and gathering feedback, and taking into account where someone is at on their writing journey when reviewing their words.

In this episode, we discuss - as writers - internally checking in, analyzing ourselves and our work, and getting honest about what we’re actually looking for from our beta readers while also clearly communicating those things when we’re seeking feedback. This helps to both set beta readers and ourselves up for success.

We also talk about some methods and practices for providing feedback. Such as: sending a list of specific questions, clarifying what elements you want focused on [pacing, character, plot, etc.], clarifying what lens you want the beta reader to use, and stating if you want neutral feedback or corrective feedback.

We hope that you enjoy this episode where we open up about our own missteps and lessons learned through doing, and that some of our thoughts about how to approach asking for feedback, and giving it, resonate with you.

Keep creating and putting your own unique voice out there!

Into the woods,

Fable & The Verbivore