We wrap up this series of posts about beta readers by answering the essential question of where to find a beta reader.
- Relatives: Our family is often a great place to start. While not every family member would make a great beta reader, there are likely some relatives who would enjoy it and provide helpful feedback. Family members, however, may not be as critical as needed, since they want to encourage us and don’t want to hurt our feelings. Even so, relatives are a great source to give our work its first read.
- Friends: Next in line are friends. Just as with family, friends may also not be as critical as needed, but they can provide an array of feedback from different perspectives.
- Writers: Other writers and authors may be open to be a beta reader, especially if they are closely connected with us or if they want to swap beta reading work.
- Readers: Some of our most engaged followers, such as blog readers or mail list subscribers, may jump at the chance to be a beta reader for us.
- Online: A Google search for “finding beta readers” gives five million results. The first match is a beta reader group on Goodreads, which has 3,600 members and will surely provide some good beta readers if we’re willing to invest the time to find them.
I’ve used the first three items and am open to the fourth while finding a beta reader on Goodreads is the most intriguing idea.
You love words, so now build a writing life that lasts. Successful Author FAQs answers the questions new and growing writers ask most, with clear advice on craft, publishing, and staying encouraged.
It’s time to start calling yourself a writer. Unleash your writing potential with Successful Author FAQs.
Peter Lyle DeHaan, PhD, is a full-time, career author. He’s published scores of books, hundreds of articles, and thousands of blog posts, with experience as a publisher, editor, and commercial freelance writer. A passionate wordsmith, his goal is to change the world one word at a time. Learn more at PeterLyleDeHaan.com.
Get your copy of Successful Author FAQs today!