Not all Feedback is Created Equal - Article

As a writer my biggest concern is lack of critique or even the incorrect type of critique. Now before you think I'm ungrateful for the people who help me with my writing, let me explain.  Not all feedback is created equal and I thrive off of the great critique.  Here's a great article I found that explains a bit more how find a great beta reader and as one how to help a writer by being a beta reader and providing feedback that is valuable.

How To Avoid The Writing Critique From Hell
by: Writer's Relief staff

Choose wisely. Your critique partner should be qualified to offer feedback on writing and publishing.  Consider asking a writer who has experience, as well as knowledge about your genre.
Try to find a reader who is also willing to point out what’s good about your writing, as opposed to someone who only focuses on the negative.

Accept that honesty is the best policy. You want the person critiquing your work to be honest about the quality of your writing. That’s how you become a better writer. 
But providing honest feedback doesn’t mean the reader offering the critique gets to be a snarky bully! Stay away from any critique partner whose big head comes with an equally big, disagreeable mouth.

Define boundaries. Be clear about what you expect from your critique partner. 
And don’t forget that your beta reader will have some expectations too. Know up front how and when you’ll be expected to reciprocate.

Decide whether to meet in person or online. Both options have their benefits. Communicating online offers more scheduling flexibility and interacting online also gives your beta reader an opportunity to carefully word his or her comments and lets you take some time to process any criticisms before you respond. 
However, meeting in person also has merits. Since writing is often a solitary pursuit, exchanging ideas face-to-face can offer a nice change of pace and lead to more productive results.

Agree to disagree. Before you discard all your hard work and make every suggested change—stop. Give the critique your full consideration, but remember: You don’t have to implement every single alteration proposed by your advisor. Make only the changes you truly feel will strengthen your work.

By carefully considering the person behind the critique, you’ll choose a partner who will offer unbiased advice and genuine encouragement, and ultimately improve your writing skills.

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