Critque Groups

I was cleaning out my bookshelf today and found a spiral notebook of information I got a few years back when Jodi Thomas gave a "Critique Boot Camp". I think it was in response to a bunch of us new writers constantly asking her how to critique, what group should we join, etc.

I thought I'd share some of the advice given to you, in case you are looking for a group to join.

1. A critique group is not a social club. If you want to socialize before hand set aside some time and then stick to a strict starting time for critiques.

2. Check your local writing associations, library's, writing friends for knowledge of critique groups in your area.

3. Ask lots of questions before joining a group. Make sure you know what is expected of you, how many members there are, what genres are represented, and what objections do they share to name a few.

4. Know the rules of your critique group. How many chapters do you bring? Is there a time limit for each critique? Do you read your work out loud or does someone else read it? How many copies of your work do you take to the meeting?

Do you have any other suggestions for people looking to join a critique group? I'm not currently in a group, but I have been in a couple of different ones. I am amazed by how each group is very unique, which reinforces to me that it is important to find a group that fits you and your writing needs. What do you think?