Does a slow sense of dread crawl up your arms at the thought of offering critical feedback to another writer? Do you question your critiquing abilities, thinking, what do I know that the other writer doesn’t? Do you wonder if you crossed an invisible line by that one particularly problematic area you pointed out? Was your feedback too little? Too much? Too harsh?

Just know that you’re not the only one asking these questions. Giving honest feedback can be hard and does require a touch of diplomacy so as not to crush your partner’s creative dreams.

Here are 3 things to consider when exchanging feedback.

The CritiqueMatch contest coordinator “sat down” for a virtual chat with J M Lasley, the winner of the 1^st FictionFive Contest.

CM: Congratulations on being the winner of the 1st CritiqueMatch FictionFive Contest! Tell us, what emotions are going through your head right now?

JML: Honestly, the first thing that went through my head when I got the announcement was, is this real? I had to reread the first paragraph a few times before it sunk in what it was saying. I honestly could not believe that I had won. It is such a great feeling! With all the chaos of this year, it was exactly the kind of good news I needed. I’m surprised, pleased, grateful, humbled, and excited for the future.