Tag: medium

A Decade of Teaching at a University and How It Has Evolved Me as An Individual and Educator

Image created using Midjourney by Author of Startup Journey

For the first ten years of my career, my role as a lecturer at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) has offered me a treasure trove of experiences, deeply enriching my understanding of education and student engagement.

This period has refined my professional abilities and spurred significant personal development, transforming me into an educator of greater influence and confidence.

Grasping the True Essence of Student Needs

In my early days, I viewed teaching primarily as imparting knowledge.

It didn’t take long to recognize that students sought something more profound – a blend of motivation, engagement, and practical knowledge application.

Recognizing and adapting to these needs marked a pivotal transformation in my teaching approach.

Strategies to Engage and Inspire

Capturing the interest of students requires an innovative approach.

I turned to interactive methods, using group discussions, real-life scenarios, and digital technology integration to make my lectures more dynamic and relevant.

These techniques made learning more enjoyable and deepened students’ comprehension and interest.

The Power of Knowledge and Earning Respect

One vital realization was the necessity of thorough preparation and expertise in my field.

Students naturally gravitate towards and respect lecturers who demonstrate comprehensive subject knowledge.

Earning this respect was instrumental in creating an environment conducive to learning and engagement.

Cultivating Confidence Through Public Speaking

Delivering regular lectures became a foundation for honing my public speaking skills.

Over time, this consistent practice significantly boosted my confidence, equipping me to present with poise and clarity at international conferences.

The skill of effective communication, garnered through my teaching experiences, has been invaluable.

View at Medium.com

Beyond Teaching: Research and Development

My responsibilities extended far beyond the lecture hall, involving rigorous research and academic paper publication.

Staying at the cutting edge of my field advanced my professional development and offered tangible benefits to my students.

This aspect of my career has been particularly gratifying, contributing to the broader academic sphere.

Fostering Enduring Connections

One of the most fulfilling outcomes of my tenure at UTM has been the lasting relationships established with students.

Many of them have evolved into friendships, professional relationships, or even client connections, often reminding me of my positive influence during their academic journey.

This has underscored the enduring impact that educators can have on their students’ lives.

Image created using Midjourney by Author of Startup Journey

Reflecting on this decade-long journey, it’s evident that my experiences at UTM have been as much about personal learning and growth as they have been about imparting knowledge.

I am very thankful. The lessons learned have enhanced my capabilities as a lecturer and enriched my life in numerous ways.

My tenure at UTM underscored that being an educator transcends teaching; it’s about inspiring, connecting, and continually evolving personally and professionally.

The story of my second job in a corporate organization (telco):

View at Medium.com

The story of my third job as a Research Director:

View at Medium.com

You can also check out my personal Blog here or the latest eBooks I have recently published — here.

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

I Almost Give Up Writing on Medium But Then Things Changed

It’s a familiar story for many writers on platforms like Medium: you start with high hopes, pouring your heart and soul into your articles, only to find that no one seems to be reading them.

This was my story, too.

I remember staring at the screen, the view counts stubbornly stuck at zero, the comment section desolate.

It’s disheartening, to say the least. But here’s why giving up isn’t the answer.

The Initial Struggle

I began my writing journey with enthusiasm.

My focus was on sharing my experiences as an entrepreneur, a topic close to my heart.

Yet, despite posting daily, even multiple times a day, the silence from the audience was deafening.

Not a single comment or clap. It was as if my words were disappearing into a void.

Searching for Answers

Why were some writers gaining hundreds of followers rapidly while my articles languished unnoticed?

I watched as others’ articles were boosted, wondering why mine weren’t getting any traction. The frustration was palpable.

I checked my traffic statistics obsessively, but nothing seemed to change.

The Turning Point

Before I allowed despair to take over, I decided to step back and analyze.

What were successful writers doing that I wasn’t? I read other articles, trying to understand the secret to their engagement and visibility.

This period of learning and reflection was crucial. It led me to implement several strategies that would eventually change my writing journey.

Implementing New Strategies

1. Writing with Emotion:

Instead of mechanically churning out content, I started to infuse my writing with personal stories and emotions.

I shared my entrepreneurial journey, not just as a series of events, but as a narrative filled with my hopes, challenges, and learnings.

2. Exploring New Niches:

I ventured beyond entrepreneurship, dabbling in topics like personal experiences and progress reports on Medium itself.

To my surprise, these new topics resonated with readers and brought in more engagement.

3. Crafting Better Headlines:

Recognizing my weakness in creating catchy headlines, I studied other authors and experimented with different styles.

The impact was immediate.

Attractive headlines drew more readers to my articles.

4. Short Bite Articles:

I learned that brevity can be powerful.

Short, concise sentences made my articles more accessible and emotionally impactful.

People seemed to appreciate these bite-sized insights over dense, fact-heavy content.

5. Engaging with Readers:

By involving readers through questions and prompts for feedback, I opened a channel for interaction.

This not only increased engagement but also built a community around my writing.

6. Aiming for Longer Read Times:

Understanding the importance of read time for monetization, I focused on creating content that would keep readers engaged beyond the typical 30-second skim.

It was about finding the sweet spot where depth meets accessibility.

The Results

The results were encouraging.

My views, follower count, and overall engagement began to climb.

I was reaching people, and more importantly, they were responding.

This was the moment I knew I had to persist with my writing on Medium.

Lessons Learned

Persistence is Key:

Success in writing, as in any field, requires persistence.

It’s about showing up, day after day, even when it feels like no one is listening.

Adapt and Grow:

Being open to change and willing to adapt your strategies is crucial.

What works for one writer may not work for another, but there are always new approaches to explore.

The Power of Community:

Engaging with other writers and readers is not just about increasing views.

It’s about building relationships and learning from each other.

Quality Over Quantity:

While it’s important to be consistent, the quality of your content is what ultimately creates value for your readers.

Moving Forward

As I look ahead, I’m filled with a renewed sense of purpose and optimism.

I’ve learned that writing is not just about putting words on a page; it’s about connecting with others, sharing experiences, and growing both as a writer and as a person.

Conclusion

To those who feel unseen in their writing journey, remember: every writer has been where you are.

The key is to not give up.

Keep writing, keep learning, and most importantly, keep believing in the power of your words.

Your audience is out there, and one day, they will find you.

In this article, I’ve shared my personal journey of overcoming the challenges of writing when it felt like no one was reading.

Through perseverance, adaptability, and a willingness to engage with the community, I found my voice and audience, proving that persistence in writing can indeed pay off.

Image created using Midjourney by Author.

A Writer’s Poem As We Enter Year 2024

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

In Twenty-Twenty-Four, a Dream Unfurls

In the heart of the year, a dream takes flight, 
A writer’s journey, in the soft moonlight. 
Twenty-Twenty-Four, a canvas new, 
A story begins, painted in hues true.

Words dance like leaves in a gentle breeze, 
Capturing whispers, the soul to please. 
Through the pen flows a river deep, 
Where thoughts and dreams from shadows leap.

In pages bound by hope and light, 
A writer’s tale shines ever bright. 
In every line, a world unfurls, 
A tapestry of dreams, in swirls.

Each word a step on a path so wide, 
With passion as the ever-glowing guide. 
The ink, a friend, in the quiet night, 
Illuminates thoughts, brings dreams to sight.

In Twenty-Twenty-Four, the story’s told, 
Of a heart brave, and a spirit bold. 
A writer’s journey, from dawn to dusk, 
In words that whisper, in a world so lush.

Embrace the call of the muse’s song, 
For in your heart, it’s been all along. 
In Twenty-Twenty-Four, let your story soar, 
A writer’s dream, alive forevermore.

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

Disclaimer: The poem above is written with the help of AI.

If you like to read my blog, check out Mazlan Abbas Blog or of you would like to download my eBooks, get them from here.

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!

Follow Mazlan Abbas’s Blog or download my latest eBooks here.

How I Multiple My Earnings By Pinning My Articles Correctly

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

Here is a little trick that might be your next big breakthrough on Medium.

I’m talking about the art of pinning articles – a super simple but incredibly impactful feature.

It’s like finding a treasure chest in your backyard.

Let me walk you through my journey and share some insights that might spark a revolution in your Medium game!

The Magic of Pinning: Why It’s a Game-Changer

Pinning articles on Medium – sounds pretty basic, right?

But trust me, it’s like strategically placing your best pieces in a virtual showcase.

When new visitors or loyal followers land on your profile, they first see what you choose to highlight.

It’s your golden opportunity to make a lasting impression.

I discovered this magic when I pinned my top articles.

They weren’t just sitting ducks; they turned into my star performers, my top-earning musketeers!

Below is proof of how my December earnings changed when I tried the pinning strategy.

My December earnings multiplied by almost six times when I tried pinning.

It was as if they were on a digital billboard on the busiest highway of the internet, waving at every passerby.

First Impressions: The Make or Break

First impressions are everything.

When you gain new followers (and oh, you will!), they’re likely to snoop around your profile.

And what they find first could decide whether they stick around or bounce off.

Pinning your best work is like rolling out the red carpet for them.

It’s your moment to say, “Welcome! Here’s the cream of the crop!”

I pinned articles that resonated most with my readers, and the impact was clear as day.

Engagement shot up, and so did my earnings. It’s a straightforward yet powerful strategy to keep your audience hooked.

The Pinning Experiment: Duration and Reviving Underperformers

Here’s where it gets a bit experimental.

I started playing around with how long to keep articles pinned.

The goal?

To keep my profile fresh yet impactful. It’s like curating an art exhibition; you want to give each masterpiece time to shine without turning the gallery stale.

But what about those not-so-popular articles?

Can pinning work like a charm for them, too?

I’m on a mission to find out.

It’s like giving a second chance to those hidden gems, letting them bask in the spotlight, maybe for the first time.

Below are some articles that began gaining traction when I gave them the turn to be pinned. Otherwise, these articles only get between 0 cents to $0.01.

Screenshot by author: I tried to pin these four articles, and the strategy works!

Your Turn to Pin and Win!

So, what’s stopping you?

Dive into your collection of articles and start pinning.

Pick the ones that truly embody your best work or have already won hearts.

It’s a small step for you, but it could be a giant leap for your Medium presence.

And remember, variety is the spice of life.

Keep rotating your pinned articles to see which ones resonate with your audience. It’s all about trying different flavors and seeing which tastes the best.

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

Pinning as Your Secret Sauce

Pinning articles is like wielding a secret weapon in the vast arsenal of Medium.

It’s easy to overlook, but its power is undeniable once you use it.

It’s not just about crafting brilliant content; it’s about strategically showcasing it to the world.

So go ahead, start pinning, and watch the magic unfold.

And why not share your pinning experiences in the comments?

Let’s exchange notes and grow together in this exhilarating journey of writing and sharing on Medium!

Tripling My Medium December Earnings: When I Implement These Amazing Things

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

December earnings have taken me by surprise!

Let me take you on a little journey that led me to triple my Medium earnings in just one magical month, December.

You see, my earnings took a nosedive back in November despite my relentless daily publishing.

Baffling, right? But as they say, necessity is the mother of invention.

So, I rolled up my sleeves and revamped my strategy.

Want to know how I turned things around?

Buckle up because here we go!

My December 2023 Earnings
The constant engagement has a big impact on the increase in views.

1. Building a Vibrant Network: Following Active Medium Writers

First things first, I decided to expand my network aggressively.

But this wasn’t about mindlessly hitting the ‘Follow’ button.

My focus was on active Medium writers – the ones who regularly engaged with recent articles.

Imagine Medium as a buzzing beehive; I wanted to connect with the busiest bees who make the most honey.

This approach had a simple yet powerful logic: I was setting the stage for meaningful exchanges by connecting with active members.

It’s like walking into a party and mingling with the liveliest groups.

This amplified my presence and ensured a dynamic and reciprocal network.

2. Engaging on a Deeper Level: Starting Conversations, Not Just Comments

My second move was to level up my engagement game.

On Medium, your worth isn’t just measured in words; it’s also in the connections you forge.

So, instead of just dropping comments here and there, I started initiating conversations.

Picture this: someone drops a thoughtful comment on your article.

Instead of a simple ‘Thanks,’ I dove into a full-fledged conversation, discussing their views, sharing insights, and sometimes, just having a friendly chat.

This wasn’t just about being polite but building a community.

People gravitate towards those who value their input.

It’s like creating a cozy corner in the vast world of the internet where every voice matters.

3. A Gesture of Appreciation: Clapping for Comments

Next up, I embraced the power of appreciation – through claps.

On Medium, claps are more than just a virtual pat on the back; they are a currency of gratitude.

Whenever someone left a comment, I gave them a round of applause.

It’s a small gesture, but it speaks volumes. It says, “I see you, hear you, and appreciate you.”

This simple act of acknowledgment can turn a casual reader into a loyal follower.

It’s about creating an atmosphere of mutual respect and appreciation, a community where everyone feels valued.

Beyond Strategy: Continuous Improvement and Crafting Catchy Headlines

But let’s not forget the backbone of any successful Medium profile: great content.

Alongside my networking and engagement strategies, I improved my writing.

I experimented with styles, dabbled in different genres, and fine-tuned my voice.

Every article was a new adventure, a new story to tell.

And headlines?

Oh, they became my secret weapon. A catchy headline is like a flashy signboard that invites people into your world.

I spent hours crafting headlines that were intriguing, witty, and impossible to scroll past.

The Game-Changing Impact

So, what was the result of all this hustling?

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

My followers multiplied, my views skyrocketed, and my earnings tripled.

It felt like striking gold in the digital world.

This wasn’t just about the money, though. It was a validation of the power of community and engagement on Medium.

I created a ripple effect that extended far beyond my expectations by focusing on active networking, deepening conversations, showing genuine appreciation, and continuously upping my content game.

A Recipe for Success

Here’s the deal: success on Medium, or any platform, isn’t just about what you write.

It’s about how you connect with your audience, how you engage with your peers, and how you keep evolving as a writer.

The strategies I used might seem straightforward, but trust me, they’re like hidden gems.

They can transform your presence from just another profile into a thriving community hub.

Remember, every follower, every clap, and every comment is a step toward building a loyal and engaged audience.

Treat these interactions not as metrics but as opportunities to connect, learn, and grow.

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

Wrapping It Up

So there you have it – my tale of turning the tides on Medium in December.

It’s a story of resilience, strategy, and a lot of heart.

If you want to boost your presence and earnings on Medium, why not try these strategies?

Who knows, you might find yourself writing your own success story soon!

And remember, in the world of content creation, your greatest asset is your unique voice and your willingness to connect.

It’s not just about reaching the destination; it’s about the experiences, the connections, and the growth you encounter along the way.

Embracing the Journey

As you embark on this path, remember that every writer’s journey is unique.

What worked for me might need some tweaking to fit your style, and that’s perfectly okay.

Experiment, adapt, and find your rhythm. Medium isn’t just a platform; it’s a canvas, and you’re the artist.

Paint it with your words, your interactions, and your passion.

A Few Parting Tips

Here are a few nuggets of wisdom I picked up along the way:

  • Be Authentic: People can spot inauthenticity from miles away. Be genuine in your interactions and your writing. Your authenticity is your trademark.
  • Stay Consistent: Whether it’s your writing style, your posting schedule, or your engagement, consistency is key. It builds trust and establishes your presence.
  • Keep Learning: The digital world is ever-evolving. Stay curious, keep learning, and adapt to new trends and algorithms. But always maintain your essence in the process.
  • Value Every Interaction: Value every interaction, from a simple clap to a detailed comment. These are the building blocks of your community.
  • Have Fun: Last but not least, have fun with it. Writing is a creative process; the moment it feels like a chore, it’s time to take a step back and reevaluate.

In Conclusion

Tripling my Medium earnings in December was a milestone, but the real achievement was the journey that led me there.

The connections I made, the conversations I had, and the personal growth I experienced were priceless.

So, go ahead, give these strategies a try, and embark on your Medium adventure.

Who knows where the journey will take you, but one thing is certain – it will be a ride!

Happy writing, and here’s to a flourishing journey on Medium!

Tik Tok vs Writing on Medium – Different Strokes Different Folks

As a newbie content creator, I’ve faced a dilemma that’s probably familiar to many: picking the right platform that truly resonates with my creative spirit and connects with my audience.

My journey, straddling the worlds of TikTok and Medium, has been nothing short of an eye-opener.

Let’s dive into the numbers first.

On TikTok, where I’m known as iotman2030, I’ve managed to gather a cool 5,783 followers.

Over on Medium, things are a bit more humble with 685 followers. But here’s where it gets interesting: my TikTok videos reel in hundreds, sometimes thousands of views, while my Medium articles?

They’re scraping by with just about ten reads daily.

So, why do I keep pouring my heart into Medium when TikTok is clearly the winning horse in terms of engagement?

It’s a tough nut to crack, and it really made me think about the diverse nature of creating content for different platforms.

TikTok: The Fast Lane

On TikTok, everything moves at lightning speed. Crafting a video is super quick, sometimes taking less than a minute.

This platform loves snappy, visually catchy content, and boy, does it deliver instant gratification!

Seeing those views and likes pile up almost instantly is a real rush.

But, trying to make some cash on TikTok? That’s a whole different ball game. The ways to monetize aren’t as clear-cut as you’d think.

Medium: Digging Deeper

Now, Medium is a different beast altogether.

I spend hours, sometimes days, writing articles, engaging with readers, and fostering a sense of community.

It’s not about churning out content. It’s about crafting pieces that resonate with depth and insight.

Medium’s crowd craves quality over quick fixes. The real reward here isn’t in big numbers, but in the meaningful conversations and connections that bloom from each article.

Different Strokes for Different Folks

The audiences on TikTok and Medium couldn’t be more different.

TikTok is like a buzzing beehive of younger folks who dig my IoT edutainment clips.

Medium, on the other hand, attracts a more mature crowd who appreciate a well-thought-out article that offers more than just surface-level insights.

It’s like catering to two different worlds, each satisfying in its own unique way.

Embracing Both Worlds

After much pondering, I decided why choose one when I can juggle both?

Each platform has its perks. TikTok gets my creative juices flowing with its fast-paced vibe, while Medium allows me to connect on a deeper level with my readers.

This dual approach has become my game plan in the diverse landscape of content creation.

The Adventure Continues…

But wait, there’s more!

My journey doesn’t stop at TikTok and Medium.

I’ve also dipped my toes into podcasting and YouTube, exploring different formats and reaching out to varied audiences.

Podcasting lets me dive into lengthy discussions, while YouTube merges TikTok’s visual charm with more substantial content.

It’s all about mixing and matching to see what resonates best.

Nuggets of Wisdom for Budding Medium Writers

If you’re thinking of taking the plunge into Medium, here are some lessons I’ve picked up along the way:

  1. Know Your Battlefield: Medium is all about depth and quality. Make your articles insightful and valuable.
  2. Connect and Converse: Medium thrives on interaction. Engage with your readers and build that community vibe.
  3. Quality is King: Unlike TikTok’s quantity game, Medium values well-crafted pieces. Put in the time to make your articles stand out.
  4. Carve Your Niche: Medium readers love expertise. Find your special corner and own it.
  5. Patience Pays Off: Growing a following on Medium is a marathon, not a sprint. Build trust and credibility steadily.
  6. Spread Your Wings: Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Explore different platforms to broaden your reach.
  7. Money Matters: Get to know Medium’s monetization tricks, like the Partner Program, and plan your content strategy around it.
  8. Stay Sharp: Keep up with the latest trends in content creation and evolve your approach accordingly.
  9. Be True to You: Pick topics that you’re passionate about. Authenticity is a magnet for readers.
  10. Diversify Your Portfolio: Treat your social media presence like an investment portfolio. Mix it up for the best overall returns.

In wrapping up, my escapade across TikTok and Medium has been a masterclass in understanding the diverse world of social media.

By embracing the unique flavor of each platform, I’ve learned to navigate the digital realm effectively, striking a balance between reaching out to my audience, engaging them meaningfully, and finding personal fulfillment in the content I create.

Should I Become a TikToker Instead of a Medium Writer

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

There’s an exciting twist to my social media followers.

I have only 685 Medium Followers as compared to 5,777 TikTok Followers.

I have less than ten views or Reads daily on Medium compared to hundreds or thousands of views on TikTok.

Here’s my TikTok account – iotman2030

But I have spent hours writing and engaging on Medium daily compared to a couple of minutes (sometimes just under one minute) to create my TikTok content.

And yet, my TikTok has better engagement. However, I still need to monetize it.

So, why the heck am I focusing on Medium?

It took me some time to realize that I still stay at Medium because the content is not the same, and the kind of satisfaction is also different.

Although my TikTok channel can be a form of edutainment, it targets different audiences.

I will never get the same followers or demographics from TikTok as my Medium.

Two different markets and two different kinds of satisfaction.

My followers from TikTok are specific to younger audiences attracted to my IoT edutainment content.

Finally, I decided to maintain both accounts.

And hey! Did I also mention that I am also active on Podcast and YouTube?

That will be another story to tell. Cheers!

No Wonder My Articles Don’t Get Boosted Because I am Using AI to Help Me

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

An entirely generated Medium article using AI is no excuse, but what if I used AI to help perfect my points and turn them into a well-written essay or blog?

Using ChatGPT to help me expand my main points into an article would be okay. But oh boy, I was wrong!

No wonder Medium never boosted my articles on the “For You” tab.

I could get some views, reads, and claps, but it never helps boost what all writers seek.

I have seen many articles by the same writers being boosted almost daily, and I questioned myself — why not me?

Then, I started to Google to find the cause of this issue and found this article — “Medium Says Writers Can Use AI — Under One Condition.”

I’m stumped!

What should I do?

View at Medium.com

How could I churn all those beautiful articles like others?

How do I get the ideas to write a 3–4 minute Medium article?

My native language is not English. How can I overcome this problem?

Well, I will have to write like how I chat with my friends on WhatsApp or social media.

I will use the help of Grammarly to correct my grammar and help with the tone of my voice.

I will write short bites, which are more straightforward than long-winded sentences.

Short paragraphs will be the way to go. It will be more of a one-sentence paragraph article.

For a start, this article is written without the help of AI.

Let’s see how it performs. If it works, I will continue this way.

Okay, good luck to me!

Happy writing!

View at Medium.com

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

View at Medium.com