My Medium Journey

I first discovered Medium through a YouTuber who suggested using the platform to drive free traffic to products, such as books. The idea was to write an article about a product and embed a promotional link within it. While this is indeed a viable approach, it often yields minimal earnings from Medium's monetization model, especially when non-members read your articles.

Initially, I was unaware of Medium's true potential until I started exploring its features. Writers can earn money on a wide range of topics, but the specifics of Medium's payment structure remain elusive. Many find it complex, and I understand the frustration. However, I’ve decided to focus on what I can earn rather than fixate on the details.

Recently, I had my first article 'boosted' and earned over $275 in about three weeks. This term refers to articles that are recognized as high-quality by Medium's boost team and receive additional exposure. It’s important to note that articles promoting products are ineligible for this boost.

If I had been better informed about writing on Medium from the start, I could have accelerated my growth in followers and earnings. My aim is to help you expedite your learning process.

Before you dive in, I recommend familiarizing yourself with how Medium operates. You don't need to have all the knowledge upfront, but understanding the basics can enhance your experience.

Here's one of my recommended reads:

I’m still learning, but I can share valuable insights for newcomers.

Section 1.1: Understanding Medium's Membership Levels

Medium offers various membership tiers, including a free option. I wrote an article that outlines each level to help you determine which aligns best with your writing aspirations.

Subsection 1.1.1: Formatting Tips for Engagement

I found a helpful article by Amarie Malone that discusses how to format your posts for better engagement and readability. Additionally, I've created two articles that showcase how to design appealing GIF subscriber graphics and utilize emojis in your titles to grab attention.

Section 1.2: Building Community and Engagement

Medium places great emphasis on authentic engagement and community building, which significantly impacts your success. To thrive here, you need to be both a reader and a writer.

As I embraced this concept, I saw my metrics improve, and my work began to gain traction. To my surprise, I found immense value in the community. I made new friends and received encouragement that boosted my confidence and challenged me as a writer.

This has been my most delightful revelation.

Set a dedicated time to read other writers' pieces. Avoid superficial interactions; instead, engage meaningfully by highlighting key points and offering thoughtful comments. Always maintain kindness and respect, even when you disagree.

This aspect of engagement is just as crucial as crafting your own articles. Although it may seem counterintuitive, building traffic and visibility for your work often comes through connecting with others.

Here are two articles I’ve written that delve deeper into community engagement and strategies to grow your readership.