Tag: Earnings

The Frustration of Watching My Medium Earnings Plummet

WRITER’S DILEMMA

I discovered this ONE big issue.

Photo by m. on Unsplash

I logged into my Medium account last month, expecting to see the usual earnings notification that would put a smile on my face.

Writing has always been more about passion than profit, but seeing my words turn into something tangible – a deposit in my bank account – was undeniably satisfying.

But this time, the number staring back at me was shockingly low so low that it didn’t even hit USD 10.

That meant no payout for the month.

My earnings would roll over into the next cycle. A wave of frustration hit me, and I asked myself, “What went wrong?”

The Drop in Numbers: What Happened?

It wasn’t long before I pinpointed the stark difference between my previous months of success and this dismal performance.

Photo by Walls.io on Unsplash

I had been actively engaging in a Facebook group tailored for Medium writers for a few months.

The concept was simple: reciprocal engagement. You read my article, I’ll read yours. You clap for my work, I’ll return the favour. It was a well-oiled machine of give-and-take.

And, for a while, it worked.

My stats soared – views, reads, claps, and comments flooded in.

My writing was reaching more people, and the monthly payouts reflected that. But deep down, something didn’t sit right with me.

Why I Stopped Reciprocal Engagement

Photo by Anna Louise on Unsplash

The truth is, I hated it.

I hated the transactional nature of it all.

Writing is deeply personal for me. It is a way to share my thoughts, experiences, and ideas with others who genuinely connect with them.

But this system of engagement felt like cheating the process.

Why should I clap for articles I had no interest in reading? Why should I leave comments that weren’t authentic to play along?

Eventually, the dissonance became too much.

I stepped back from the group and chose to focus on reading and writing based on my interests and instincts.

No more forced claps. No more insincere comments.

I felt liberated, but it came at a cost.

The moment I stopped participating in reciprocal engagement, the numbers on my Medium dashboard plummeted.

Views dried up. Reads were scarce. Claps and comments? A rare sight.

And, of course, the earnings followed suit.

Wrestling with the Frustration

Photo by ahmad gunnaivi on Unsplash

Seeing my earnings nosedive was disheartening.

It wasn’t just about the money – it was the validation that came with it.

When your writing generates income, it feels like a stamp of approval, a sign that your work matters.

Watching that income drop feels like rejection, even if you know its real reason.

I couldn’t help but wonder: Was my writing not good enough? Did I depend too much on these artificial boosts?

My rational side knew the answers, but the emotional side still stung.

Returning to Authenticity

Photo by Kelly Tokas on Unsplash

Despite the frustration, I’m standing by my decision.

Writing has to feel real. It has to come from a place of honesty, not obligation.

I’ve decided to stick to my natural rhythm – writing when inspiration strikes and engaging with articles that interest me.

Will my earnings recover? I don’t know.

But I’d rather have a smaller, more genuine audience than inflate my stats through insincere tactics.

I want readers who connect with my stories, not readers who feel obligated to clap because I clapped for theirs.

Looking Ahead

Photo by Matt Howard on Unsplash

This month feels like a fresh start.

I’m curious to see what happens when I leave behind the shortcuts and focus solely on authentic engagement.

Will the numbers bounce back, or will they stay low?

Either way, I’m ready to embrace the journey – writing isn’t just about the destination or the paycheck at the end of the month.

It’s about staying true to yourself and your voice.

Let’s see where this path takes me.

I Earned 107X After a Year on Medium: When I Implement These Four Amazing Things

WRITER’S STORIES

The not-so-secret things that go a long way!

Photo by Denis Agati on Unsplash

What a year it has been! From the highs of success to the lows of unexpected hurdles, the journey of my earnings on Medium in April 2024 has been nothing short of a rollercoaster ride — 107 times more exhilarating than last April, to be precise!

So, grab your favorite cup of coffee and settle in as I describe the twists and turns of this incredible story from my personal perspective.

Let’s start with a bit of background.

Last year, I remember staring at my earnings report in disbelief. The numbers were dismal, barely a blip on the financial radar.

April 2023 — Only 52 cents!

I pondered, “How can this be? I’ve been pouring my heart and soul into every post!”

It was frustrating, to say the least.

But then, as I often remind myself in moments of doubt, necessity really is the mother of invention.

I needed a game changer, and I needed it fast.

Here’s where the magic began.

I revamped my entire approach.

No stone was left unturned — strategy, engagement, content.

You name it, I tweaked it.

But more than anything, it was about connecting on a deeper level with my readers and fellow writers.

1 — Building a Vibrant Network

First up, I decided to build a more vibrant network.

It wasn’t just about increasing numbers, but about fostering meaningful interactions.

I targeted active Medium writers who were not just contributors but engaged community members.

I liken it to joining a buzzing hive of activity and positioning myself right at the center.

The energy was contagious, and it paid off in spades.

2 — Engaging on a Deeper Level

Then, I took engagement up a notch.

Instead of generic comments, I initiated genuine conversations.

Imagine this: you comment on a post and the author dives deep into a discussion with you.

It’s thrilling, right?

That’s what I aimed for — real connections that went beyond the surface.

This wasn’t just about increasing my visibility; it was about building a community, a place where everyone felt heard and valued.

I often found myself deep in thought, pondering, “What makes an interaction truly meaningful?”

It’s the personal touch, the effort to engage on a human level, not just as a writer but as a fellow enthusiast of life’s myriad stories.

3 — A Gesture of Appreciation: Clapping for Comments

Appreciation goes a long way.

On Medium, claps are more than just applause — they’re a show of gratitude.

I made it a point to clap for comments, acknowledging each person’s contribution.

This small gesture helped transform casual readers into loyal followers. It felt like every clap sent a ripple of positivity across my network.

4 — Continuous Improvement and Crafting Catchy Headlines

But let’s not forget the backbone of any writing endeavor — content.

I experimented with styles, explored different genres, and sharpened my voice.

Each article was a new journey.

And headlines? They were my secret weapon.

Crafting an irresistible headline became an art form in itself, one that could captivate and intrigue with just a few words.

So, what was the result of all these efforts?

My Medium profile didn’t just grow; it soared.

107 times more in April 2024

Followers multiplied, views skyrocketed, and, yes, earnings increased — a whopping 107 times the previous April! It felt like striking digital gold.

Now, you might wonder, “Is there a secret recipe to this success?” Honestly, it’s about more than just strategies and techniques.

It’s about connecting authentically, engaging sincerely, and never stopping the quest for improvement.

As I wrap up this tale of transformation, I can’t help but reflect on the broader implications.

It’s not just about boosting numbers or earning more — it’s about the journey, the connections made, and the growth experienced along the way.

If you’re looking to amplify your presence on any platform, not just Medium, why not try these strategies?

Dive into the deep end of engagement, cherish every interaction, and always, always keep your content dynamic.

You never know — you might find yourself penning your own success story.

Remember, in the world of content creation, it’s not just the destination that counts — it’s the vibrant, sometimes challenging, but always enriching journey.

So, embrace it fully, with all its ups and downs, because that’s where the real magic happens.

Happy writing, and here’s to a journey filled with discovery and success!

How Much is Your Earnings per Read — See This to Find Out

EARNINGS PER READ

The easy way to calculate your earnings.

Photo by Campaign Creators on Unsplash

Not a member? Click here to read the whole story.

Let’s share whether this is the range of earnings per read.

Dear All — Please help with this simple survey to validate whether the earnings per read are between 3 and 10 cents.

What you need to do is take a look at your monthly stats:

  • Total number of views
  • Total earnings
  • Earning per read = Total earnings/Total reads

For example, below:

Author’s March 2024 Reads and Views
Author’s March 2024 Earnings

Earnings per read = $40.49/803 = $0.05

Please leave this result in the comments section and see whether this calculation is true.

I assume that the value ranges depend on the following:

  • 10 cents or more — the stories are high-quality with high engagement
  • 5 cents or less — the stories are lower quality and engagement

I will share the results of this simple survey when I have enough responses.

Thanks!

Tips to get more reads monthly:

  • Write consistently. Post more than once per day.
  • Engage using claps, highlights, comments, and follow.
  • Write engaging headlines.
  • Write topics about Medium and how to be a better writer in Medium.
  • Show your earnings and other stats.

Top stories this year:

View at Medium.comView at Medium.comView at Medium.com

The Reasons My Medium Stats Are Like a Yo-Yo

New Posting Strategies

Author’s March 2024 stats

It was not always like this (as above).

As you can see, most views can reach more than 1K daily.

Sometimes, it dipped down to a couple of hundred.

Author’s December Stats

My old December stats look something like this. All the views are less than 100.

And my average reads about 20 daily.

I can easily see the number of reads in my December stats, but it was “drowned” in my March stats. I couldn’t figure out the numbers until I hovered my finger over the stats. The reason because of the huge difference in Views and Reads.

This happened mainly because I have a mailing list that receives email notifications, and the articles are non-paywall.

However, the number of views suddenly dropped whenever I posted a paywall article.

My initial intention was to allow non-member readers to read the full article directly from the email received.

However, I felt I might lose the opportunity to monetize if some MPP members also decided to read from their email rather than go to the Medium platform.

Finally I changed my email notification strategy:

  • Post non-paywall only when I want to allow non-members to read full article easily without going to Medium. After posting, I will change the article to paywall.
  • Post paywall article but with a note in the article – “for non-member, they can click the link to have free access.”
  • Post paywall articles without enabling email notifications.

From now on, I will be using the strategy above.

I am beginning to understand the flow of writing and posting on Medium.

-mazlan-

The Hard Lessons When Having a Drastic Niche Shift on Medium

The Art of Engagement

Rebuilding a Community Around New Passions

Photo by Alexander Mils on Unsplash

The Unexpected Turn of March

March arrived with its usual unpredictability, but this time, it had a few extra tricks up its sleeve.

As I tried to reshape my content creation focus toward travelogue and poetry, the thrill of embarking on a new adventure was palpable.

Little did I know, this transition would serve up some unexpected lessons in content engagement and audience dynamics.

Why March Became a Desert in My Content Oasis

My previous content, centered on Medium insights and earnings, resonated well with my audience, creating a reliable stream of engagement and income.

The shift to travelogues and poetry, driven by a desire for fresh creativity and exploration, was a stark departure from the norm.

This new direction, while exciting for me, didn’t strike the same chord with my established audience, leading to a notable dip in engagement and earnings.

Understanding Audience Disengagement

The decision to leap into new thematic territories was met with silence and dwindling numbers.

It became clear that the audience I had cultivated was more attuned to my analytical pieces on Medium and earnings rather than the artistic nuance of travel tales or the rhythmic beauty of poetry.

The stark decrease in interaction was a loud and clear message: my audience’s preferences were not aligning with my new content direction.

Embracing Change and Community Engagement

Recognizing the disconnect, I acknowledged the necessity of fostering a new community aligned with my current interests.

Engaging with fellow travel and poetry enthusiasts became my new focus, marking the beginning of planting seeds in a garden I hoped would flourish.

Through active participation, sharing, and interaction within these new niches, I aimed to cultivate a dedicated audience who shared my passion for these genres.

Growth and Optimism Ahead

Despite the challenges, the latter part of March showed glimmers of engagement, suggesting that with persistence and genuine interaction, growth is possible.

While the journey through March was more humbling than celebratory, it underscored the value of adaptability and perseverance in content creation.

Lessons Learned and the Path Forward

This experience taught me that change, while necessary for growth, comes with its own set of challenges.

Audience engagement is not just about content creation but also about nurturing a community that resonates with your message.

As I look to the future, I remain committed to my new path, knowing that with time, effort, and engagement, I can rebuild a connected and supportive audience base.

In conclusion, March was a month of unexpected lessons and reflection, reminding me that the journey of content creation is ever-evolving.

Despite the initial setbacks, the experience has only fueled my resolve to pursue my passions and foster a community that shares them.

Why do some writers and creators become known for a term, a phrase, or even an entire category, while others (talented as they might be) fade away?

To write within your niche, check this Audible Audiobook from Amazon “Become Known for a Niche You Own: Why Legendary Writers Use Languaging to Design New & Different Categories”.

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Use These 10 Lessons to Elevate Your Writing Game in 2024

My Learnings and Reflections

Use These 10 Writing Lessons. Photo by Unsplash.

Throughout 2023, I diligently crafted over 100 articles, yet disappointingly, more than 80% garnered fewer than ten views each.

This was disheartening and exhausting.

The purpose of writing is to communicate our thoughts and insights to our audience, yet, for a significant part of the year, my follower count stagnated.

Reflecting on this, I realized several errors in my approach.

Below are the crucial mistakes I identified and my resolve to rectify them in the upcoming year.

Personal Reflections on My Writing Shortcomings in 2023

  1. Embracing Emotional Resonance: I acknowledge that my previous writings lacked emotional engagement, often feeling mechanical and distant. Moving forward, I am committed to writing with authenticity and passion, aiming to connect genuinely with my readers.
  2. Prioritizing Problem-Solving: I recognize my past focus on imparting knowledge without addressing real-life applications or solutions. In 2024, I will strive to provide actionable insights and solve pertinent issues, thereby adding substantial value for my readers.
  3. Engaging With My Audience: I realize the importance of selecting topics that resonate with my audience. In this 2024 year, I pledge to tune into their interests and needs, fostering a stronger connection through relevant and impactful content.
  4. Mastering Headlines and SEO: I’ve learned the significance of compelling headlines and search engine optimization. By enhancing these aspects, I aim to broaden my reach and ensure my writings are easily discoverable and engaging.
  5. Simplifying My Language: Reflecting on my past work, I see the necessity of avoiding overly complex sentences. I will focus on clarity and accessibility, making my articles easier to read and understand.
  6. Building Genuine Connections: I intend to deepen my engagement with fellow writers, moving beyond superficial interactions. By fostering sincere relationships, I can learn, grow, and contribute to a supportive writing community.
  7. Strategizing Content Republishing: I acknowledge the ineffectiveness of republishing old content without a clear strategy or updates. I plan to rejuvenate my previous articles thoughtfully, ensuring they offer fresh insights and remain relevant.
  8. Staying Abreast of Trends: I have realized my oversight in not leveraging trending topics within my field. In 2024, I aim to stay informed and capitalize on current discussions, attracting a broader audience through timely and pertinent content.
  9. Offering Practical Guides: I see the value in providing practical, step-by-step guidance in my writings. I will incorporate more “How-To” articles, offering readers clear, actionable advice that they can readily implement.
  10. Sharing My Writing Journey: I have not consistently shared my personal writing experiences, triumphs, and setbacks. By opening up about my journey, I hope to inspire and connect with others on a more personal level.

These reflections are a condensed version of my learnings, guiding my path to improved writing in 2024.

https://mazlanabbas.com/lessons-learned-before-and-after-joining-medium-partner-0ce1fdc16cf9https://mazlanabbas.com/lessons-learned-before-and-after-joining-medium-partner-0ce1fdc16cf9https://mazlanabbas.com/lessons-learned-before-and-after-joining-medium-partner-0ce1fdc16cf9

How These Tips Pay for My 2.5 Years of Medium Subscription Within 4 Months

Follow the Five Tips

Image created using Midjourney by Author

There are two reasons why I chose to upgrade to the Medium Partner Program (MPP) with a $50 annual subscription:

1 — Read the excellent articles written by many authors behind the paywall.

2 — To become a writer myself and ensure that the earnings from my articles can cover the annual subscription costs.

For the next four months, I have been continuously writing many articles that cover various topics, such as — IoT, Startup, Thought Leadership, and Writing.

Below is the outcome — a total of $130.23! If we divide by $50, it will cover almost 2.5 years of MPP subscription.

Below are five tips that I followed:

1 — Publish Regularly

Consistency Attracts Readers

Regular publishing is a cornerstone of successful blogging.

Maintaining a consistent posting schedule establishes a rhythm that your audience can depend on and adapt to.

This consistency helps build a loyal readership, as readers are more likely to return to your blog anticipating new content. Regular updates signal to search engines that your blog is active, potentially improving its ranking.

The key is to find a balance that works for you and your audience — daily, weekly, or bi-weekly posts — and stick to it.

This habitual engagement not only helps retain existing readers but also attracts new ones who appreciate the reliability of your content updates.

2 — Quality Content

Focus on Creating Valuable, Informative Posts

The importance of quality content cannot be overstated in the blogging world.

High-quality, informative posts are the bedrock of a successful blog. This involves well-written articles and content that is valuable and relevant to your audience.

Investing time and effort into researching and understanding what your readers are interested in and what problems they are trying to solve is essential.

You ensure that your content resonates with your audience by providing solutions, insights, or valuable information.

Quality content also increases the likelihood of your posts being shared, which can help attract a wider audience and establish your blog as a go-to resource in your niche.

3 — Engaging Headlines

Craft Titles That Draw Readers In

Headlines are the first point of contact between your content and potential readers, making them a critical element of your posts. An engaging, compelling headline can make the difference between a post that is widely read and one that is overlooked.

Good headlines should be clear, intriguing, and reflective of the content within the article.

They should spark curiosity or offer a clear benefit to the reader, encouraging them to click through and read the entire post.

Crafting the correct headline requires a balance between creativity and clarity, ensuring it is attention-grabbing and accurately represents the article’s content.

4 — Use Tags Wisely

Tags Increase Discoverability

Tags are a powerful tool for increasing the discoverability of your blog posts. When used wisely, they help categorize your content, making it easier for readers to find related posts and navigate your blog.

Tags also significantly improve your blog’s visibility on search engines, as they help index your content more effectively.

It’s essential to use relevant and specific tags that accurately describe the content of your post.

Overusing or misusing tags can be counterproductive, as it may lead to poor user experience and negatively impact your blog’s search engine ranking.

The key is to use a consistent and thoughtful approach to tagging that enhances the overall accessibility and organization of your content.

5 — Eye-Catching Images

Visuals Make Your Posts More Appealing

Incorporating eye-catching images into your blog posts significantly enhances their appeal and effectiveness.

Visual elements like photos, graphics, or infographics can break up large blocks of text, making your posts more readable and engaging.

They also provide an opportunity to visually represent or complement your written content, making it more understandable and memorable.

Additionally, images can make your content more shareable on social media, as posts with visuals attract more attention and engagement.

Choosing images that are relevant to your content and of high quality is essential.

Properly formatted and optimized images can also contribute positively to your blog’s SEO, further increasing the visibility of your posts.

View at Medium.comView at Medium.com

Lessons Learned Before and After Joining Medium Partner

I joined Medium and have been writing articles since July 2016.

But I could have been more active and serious about writing on Medium. I was more involved in writing for my blogs — Mazlan Abbas, IoT World, and others.

Sometimes, I would come back to Medium and republish my blog articles on Medium, thinking people would be able to read them, too.

I was wrong! Only a handful of people are reading and following my republished articles.

I joined the Medium Partner Program (MPP) at the end of September 2023. Because I wanted to read the articles behind the paywall, I couldn’t resist the temptation of reading all the great and catchy headlines.

But I also made a target that I should be active and ensure that the money earned from my writing can pay for the subscription.

Below is the traffic stats from August to November 2023. You will notice that the traffic (views and reads) was very low before the end of September 2023. It was much quieter since July 2016.

Screenshot August 2023 Traffic Stats (Author)
Screenshot September 2023 Traffic Stats (Author)
Screenshot October 2023 Traffic Stats (Author)
Screenshot November 2023 Traffic Stats (Author)
Screenshot December 2023 Traffic Stats (Author)

The stats gave me a view of my performance and made me understand what works and what doesn’t.

Read/Views Ratio:

August: 12/27 = 44.44% = ($0.00)
September: 21/85 = 24.7% ($0.37)
October: 90/317 = 28.39% ($8.63)
November: 244/635 = 38.42% ($6.89)
December: 428/1000 = 42.8% ($55.62)

Screenshot Earnings Stats (August — December 2023) (Author)

In August 2023, although I had one of the highest read ratios, I earned nothing, probably because of other factors such as low views and reads. I was not engaging with other writers. I’m only busy republishing my old content.

Reflecting on your experience before and after joining the Medium Partner Program, several valuable lessons can be drawn from your writing journey. Here are three key lessons:

  1. Create Content That Resonates with Your Audience: Your experience highlights the importance of crafting articles that genuinely resonate with your audience. While republishing blog content on Medium seemed like a good idea, it didn’t yield the expected results regarding reader engagement. This suggests that understanding the preferences and interests of the Medium audience is crucial. Tailoring your content to meet these preferences, whether it’s through topic selection, writing style, or presentation, can significantly increase reader engagement and following.
  2. Catchy Headlines Are Essential: Your observation about being drawn to articles with great and catchy headlines on Medium is a crucial lesson. A compelling headline is often the first point of contact with potential readers. It can make the difference between someone deciding to read your article or scrolling past it. Investing time crafting engaging, intriguing, or thought-provoking headlines can significantly increase the likelihood of attracting more readers.
  3. Continuous Engagement with Other Writers is Key: One of the most important lessons from my journey is the value of engaging with other writers on the platform. Initially, I focused more on republishing existing content than actively engaging with the Medium community. However, engagement with other writers helps build a network and provides insights into what works well on the platform. This engagement can take many forms, such as commenting on other articles, participating in discussions, or collaborating with other writers. Such interactions increase my visibility and provide opportunities for learning and growth as a writer.

These lessons are valuable for writing on Medium, as well as for content creation and audience engagement in general.

They underscore the importance of understanding your audience, the power of first impressions through headlines, and the benefits of active participation in a writing community.

The Significance of the $50 Milestone in My Medium Journey

Image created using Midjourney by Author of Startup Journey

As 2023 draws close, I reflect on a significant milestone in my writing journey: reaching the $50 earning target on Medium.

This goal is not just a number for me; it embodies my dedication, learning, and evolving strategies that have shaped my experience in the Medium Partner Program (MPP).

Why $50 Matters

1. Meeting My Medium Partner Program Subscription:

In October 2023, I embarked on a journey with the Medium Partner Program, a platform that promised to be a new avenue for my creative expression and growth.

The $50 mark is critical as it equals the yearly subscription fee for the MPP.

Reaching this target means my passion for writing is not just self-sustaining but also an investment that pays for itself, literally.

2. Joining the Elite 8%:

Another reason this target is significant is its symbolic value.

Earning $50 places me halfway to the $100 mark, a feat achieved by only 8% of Medium writers.

This benchmark is not just a testament to my writing skills but also to my perseverance and dedication to my craft.

The Journey So Far

My initial goal when I joined MPP was modest – to earn at least $5 monthly.

However, as December unfolded, my earnings surprisingly reached $48.26, with three days remaining.

This progress was not just encouraging; it transformed my perception of what’s achievable.

[Update: Dec. 30, 2023]

Today, I have reached my target and I am super excited!

Strategies That Made the Difference

Engaging with Other Writers:

I realized early on that writing in isolation on Medium doesn’t spell success. Engagement with other writers – commenting, responding, and clapping – has been pivotal.

It created a supportive community around my work, increasing visibility and readership.

Pinning Articles and Crafting Headlines:

The way I present and promote my articles transformed.

Pinning articles strategically and crafting compelling headlines significantly increased the readership.

These are about more than just attracting readers; they are about ensuring they value what I say.

Looking Ahead: Boosting My Articles and Celebrating Success

As I look towards 2024, I aspire to see my articles get boosted, reach a wider audience, and create a more significant impact.

Achieving the $50 mark is not just about meeting a financial target; it’s about affirming my writing and strategies.

Reaching the $50 earning target on Medium is more than a monetary achievement.

It’s a validation of my efforts, a proof of my evolving strategies, and a stepping stone towards more significant accomplishments.

As I continue this journey, I’m filled with hope and excitement for what the future holds, not just for my earnings but for the growth and impact of my writing.

This article reflects my journey of reaching a significant milestone in the Medium Partner Program and the strategies that made it possible, highlighting the importance of community engagement and effective article promotion.

Go on! Try this!

I also have my blog – Mazlan Abbas, and eBooks here. Check them out!

Image created using Midjourney by Author of Startup Journey

How My Articles Able to Pay the MPP Subscription – (And How You Can Too)

The image was created using Midjourney by the Author of Startup Journey

When I decided to join the Medium Partner Program (MPP), I promised it would at least pay for itself.

Today, I’m excited to take you through my exhilarating journey on Medium – a tale of evolving from merely covering the Medium Partner Program (MPP) fees to earning profits that surprised me.

Let me delve into the strategies that transformed my Medium experience, focusing on follows, claps, comments, highlights, replies, and the pivotal role of reading time.

The Humble Start

When I joined MPP, my goal was modest: to earn enough to pay the monthly fee of $5.00.

The early days were a blend of excitement and uncertainty.

My articles, reflections of my experiences and thoughts, seemed like tiny boats I released into the vast ocean of Medium, hoping they’d find their shore.

Turning Followers into a Foothold

Gaining followers on Medium isn’t just about numbers; it’s about building a community.

I realized that each follower represented a potential regular reader, a supporter, and an engager.

So, I started reaching out, not just through my writing but through genuine interactions.

I followed authors whose work inspired me; in return, many followed.

This reciprocity wasn’t just about growing numbers and nurturing a mutual support network.

The Magic of Claps

On Medium, claps are more than just applause; they’re a currency of appreciation.

I learned that clapping for articles wasn’t just a passive action.

It said, “I see your work, and it resonates with me.”

By consistently clapping for articles I enjoyed, I spread positivity and subtly increased my visibility within the community.

Highlighting the Highlights

Highlights on Medium are like shining a spotlight on the parts that speak to you.

I began using highlights to mark phrases or ideas that struck a chord.

This showed authors what I appreciated in their work and helped me remember these golden nuggets.

It’s incredible how a simple highlight can lead to meaningful connections and conversations.

The Power of Comments and Replies

Comments and replies are where the real magic of engagement happens.

I made it a point to leave thoughtful comments on articles I read.

This wasn’t about leaving generic praises but about engaging in meaningful discussions, asking questions, or sharing how the article affected me.

Replies to comments on my articles were just as crucial.

They were opportunities to deepen connections and show my appreciation for readers’ time and thoughts.

Maximizing Reading Time

Medium values the time readers spend on your articles.

I learned that it wasn’t just about getting clicks but about keeping readers engaged.

So, I focused on creating exciting but also valuable and insightful content.

I paid attention to the length of my articles, ensuring they were long enough to provide depth but concise enough to maintain engagement.

The December Surprise

Then came December, a month that broke all my previous records.

My earnings were enough to cover not just one but eight months of MPP fees!

This breakthrough was a testament to the power of consistent engagement and quality content.

It was a joyous reminder that when you invest in the community, the community supports back in you.

Key Takeaways for Aspiring Medium Writers

  1. Build a Community, Not Just a Following: Engage with your followers and follow others genuinely. It’s about creating a network of support.
  2. Clap with Purpose: Show appreciation for others’ work. It’s a simple yet effective way to connect. More claps indicate a standing ovation.
  3. Use Highlights Effectively: Highlight parts that resonate with you in others’ articles. It’s a great way to engage and remember key points.
  4. Engage Meaningfully in Comments: Don’t just read; participate in discussions. Your comments can open doors to new connections.
  5. Value Your Readers’ Time: Create content that keeps readers engaged. Quality and relevance are essential.
The image was created using Midjourney by the Author of Startup Journey

Read these two tips that help to multiply my earnings:

View at Medium.comView at Medium.com

Conclusion

I remain committed to these strategies as I continue my journey on Medium.

The joy of writing and the satisfaction of building a community make every moment on Medium worthwhile.

For those starting or struggling on Medium, remember that success is a blend of consistent engagement, valuable content, and genuine connections.

Keep writing, keep engaging, and maybe your next article will be the one that sets your earnings soaring!

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