As any writer can tell you, writing is a solitary pursuit, and most writers are solitary creatures, quite content to work alone. Still, writers can often benefit by the company of others with similar goals and dreams, so many writers turn to writing groups. Whether meeting in local, public places or in an online format only, writing groups can be a blessing for a writer.

Joining a writing group, however, can be a big investment of time and effort. So if you're thinking about joining such a group, you might want to weight the pros and cons to decide if it's worth your while.

Pros

- Writers often find that family and friends, no matter how well-intentioned, are often less than supportive of their "hobby". Writing groups are a great way to find oft-needed encouragement and support from others who share the same interests, dreams and goals.

- Writing groups -- if you find the right one -- are great for critical feedback. If you're considering submitting your work for publication, a good writing group can be invaluable towards helping with those final edits, offering suggestions on continuity, wording, characterization, and other vital parts of your work.

- Like any other profession, networking is one of the tools for success. What better way to network than to situate yourself for networking than to join a writing group?

- In any given writing group, there will always be members with different strengths and weaknesses. One of the greatest benefits of a writing group is being able to gain from other's strengths and to share your own. Everyone reaps the benefits.

Cons

- Sometimes feedback can be rough. Writing groups are not all rainbows and roses. Often feedback, no matter how helpful, can be tough to hear. Many groups take a policy of "zero sugarcoating." If they don't like something, you'll know it. Be sure you're prepared to take (and give) difficult criticism.

- Writing groups often require a commitment. For writing groups that focus on critiquing, you may be required to provide several, in-depth critiques on work from other group members. You may also be required to bring a new piece of work, ready to be critiqued, to meetings. So be aware and ready to comply with group requirements.

- That pesky old issue of public speaking. In most writing groups, members read aloud from their work. Those who are uncomfortable with public speaking might be better suited to online groups.

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Like everything else, writing groups are not for everyone, and these are just a few things to consider when thinking about joining such a group. Ultimately, for those willing to put in the time and effort to make it a worthwhile experience, there are definite benefits to be had by joining a writing group.

Lisa is an author on http://www.Writing.Com which is a site for Poetry.