I am short of another milestone – to reach my 1,000 followers target!
A Look Back at Eight Years
As the clock ticks down to the New Year 2024, I find myself in an exciting yet slightly nerve-wracking position.
I’m just 23 followers short of reaching a significant milestone in my blogging journey: 1,000 followers.
Author’s Snapshot on Dec. 31, 2021
This goal, which once seemed like a distant dream, is now tantalizingly close.
Reflecting on the past eight years, my audience consistently hovered around 200 followers. Despite my efforts, breaking out of this range felt like an insurmountable task.
That was until a pivotal moment at the end of September 2023, which marked my entry into the Medium Partner Program.
A Turning Point with Medium
Joining Medium was like opening a door to a world brimming with insightful writing tips and a vibrant community of writers.
The platform gave me access to a wealth of knowledge, and I eagerly dived in.
I began implementing the tips and tricks I learned from other successful Medium writers, and the results were almost immediate.
My initial target was modest: gain at least 5 new followers each day.
However, to my surprise and delight, this number soon doubled to 10 followers daily. This growth, I believe, stemmed from my active engagement within the Medium community.
I spent considerable time reading articles by other writers, leaving thoughtful comments, and following others in similar niches.
This expanded my network and enriched my understanding of what resonates with readers.
The Final Push
As of today, I stand 23 followers short of my goal. It’s a mix of excitement and uncertainty.
Will I hit the 1,000 mark before the year ends? It’s hard to say, but one thing is sure: January 2024 looks promising.
The prospect of reaching this milestone fills me with a sense of achievement and anticipation.
The Value of the Medium Partner Program
I cannot overstate the value of joining the Medium Partner Program, particularly the paid subscription.
It has been instrumental in my growth as a writer.
The unlimited access to the collective wisdom of other Medium writers has been a game changer.
It’s not just about the numbers; it’s about the growth journey and the community that supports and inspires you along the way.
A Message of Gratitude and Hope
As I stand on the cusp of this milestone, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to my old and new followers.
Your support and engagement have been the driving force behind my journey.
My advice to those still contemplating whether to join platforms like Medium is simple: leap.
The benefits, both in terms of personal growth and audience engagement, are well worth it.
Happy New Year to all of you!
Here’s to reaching new heights, not just in follower count but in the quality of connections and content we create.
Whether I reach the 1,000 mark now or a bit later, the journey has been incredible, and for that, I am profoundly grateful.
[Update: 1/1/2024]
Surprise! Surprise!
When I woke up this morning and checked my profile… yes! It has reached 1K target!
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.
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.
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 EarningsThe 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.
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!
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?
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?
Have you ever wondered why some articles grab your attention like a magnet while others float away in the sea of digital content?
What makes you click, read, and stay engaged with a piece of writing?
Could secret traps lurk in the shadows, waiting to snatch away the impact of your carefully crafted words?
Welcome to a journey through the maze of content creation, a world where pitfalls are as common as opportunities.
This comprehensive exploration aims to unveil and dissect the subtle yet significant pitfalls in article writing, encapsulated in the acronym “W.H.I.N.I.N.G.”
Wrong Audience Targeting
One of the fundamental errors in writing is the misalignment with the intended audience.
Understanding your audience is like having a roadmap; without it, your content is likely to get lost in the vastness of the internet.
It delves deep into the strategies for identifying your target audience, understanding their needs, preferences, and pain points, and tailoring your content to resonate with them.
You need to explore how demographic research, reader personas, and audience engagement metrics can guide you to create more targeted and impactful content.
2. Hyperbole Overload
In a bid to capture attention, writers often resort to sensationalism. But there’s a fine line between engaging and exaggerating.
It addresses the risks of overusing hyperbole and sensationalist language.
It’s how credibility and trustworthiness can be compromised by exaggeration and how to strike a balance between being engaging and authentic.
Real-life examples will illustrate how subtlety and nuance are often more potent than overstated claims.
3. Inconsistent Quality
Consistency is the key to building a loyal readership.
Fluctuations in style, tone, or accuracy can be jarring and off-putting to readers.
Here, you must maintain a consistent voice and quality in your writing.
You must cover techniques for developing a consistent writing style, ensuring factual accuracy, and maintaining a steady tone that aligns with your brand or personal voice.
4. Neglecting SEO
In the digital world, being visible is as important as being good.
Ignoring the principles of Search Engine Optimization (SEO) can bury your content under the avalanche of online information.
SEO is essential for writers. You must examine how keyword research, understanding search intent, and optimizing content can enhance your article’s visibility and reach.
You must find ways to integrate SEO seamlessly into your writing process.
5. Irrelevant Content
Staying relevant is crucial.
Diverging from the central theme or incorporating irrelevant content can quickly disengage your audience.
Relevance is vital in content creation. It explores strategies for staying on-topic, aligning content with audience expectations, and avoiding the pitfall of including irrelevant information.
You must tactfully weave in diverse perspectives without straying from the core message.
6. No Unique Perspective
In a sea of content, uniqueness is your lifeboat.
Failing to offer a fresh or unique perspective can render your article just another drop in the ocean.
You must explore the importance of bringing a unique angle or insight to your topic.
Try to hone your unique voice, draw on personal experiences or expertise, and present familiar topics in novel ways to make your content stand out.
7. Grammatical Errors
The devil is in the details, and grammatical errors are the nemeses of good writing.
Take note the impact of grammatical precision and the common pitfalls that can undermine your article’s professionalism.
Get the right tools for ensuring grammatical accuracy, the importance of proofreading, and how to effectively use grammar-checking software without losing your personal touch.
Conclusion
In conclusion, steering clear of these “W.H.I.N.I.N.G” mistakes can dramatically elevate the quality and appeal of your articles.
By targeting the right audience, balancing engagement with authenticity, maintaining consistency, incorporating SEO, ensuring relevance, offering unique perspectives, and upholding grammatical standards, you can transform your writing into a powerful tool for engagement and impact.
Remember, effective writing is about what you say and how you say it. With these insights, you’re well on your way to mastering the art of impactful writing.
Remember to Subscribe to receive email updates on every post I publish.
I wrote this book with little thought about the title.
Later, I regretted it – I changed the book title twice.
Understanding the Digital Marketplace
The title of a book is a critical component of its success.
This was a lesson I learned by renaming my eBook, initially titled “IoT Adventure.”
My experience underscores the significance of SEO (Search Engine Optimization) and strategic keyword use in book titles, particularly in the ever-expanding digital marketplace.
Initial Title: “IoT Adventure” – Capturing Excitement and Exploration
My foray into the publishing world began with the release of my eBook on the Internet of Things (IoT). Choosing “IoT Adventure” as the title, I aimed to encapsulate the excitement and exploration inherent in the burgeoning field of IoT.
The title was catchy, reflecting the pioneering spirit of the subject matter.
However, this title was more than just a creative expression; it was my first step in understanding the intricate dance between content and discoverability in the digital realm.
Transition to “IoT Frontier” – Embracing a Pioneering Spirit
After some reflection, I renamed the eBook to “IoT Frontier.”
This subtle yet significant shift in the title was meant to evoke a sense of pioneering, aligning with the innovative nature of IoT.
Despite this, I soon encountered a vital realization. In the digital age, where eBooks are adrift in a vast ocean of online content, a compelling title is a linchpin in the struggle for visibility.
The Power of SEO and Keywords: Finalizing “IoT: A Beginner’s Guide”
This realization brought me to the crux of digital marketing: the power of SEO and the meticulous choice of keywords. “IoT Adventure” was engaging, and “IoT Frontier” resonated with innovation, but were these titles optimized for the digital audience, specifically for those seeking knowledge in the IoT domain?
This final title was more than a mere label; it was a deliberate and strategic choice.
Including “Beginner’s Guide” in the title, which is capitalized on a commonly searched phrase by novices across various fields.
This strategic incorporation significantly enhanced the eBook’s discoverability to my intended audience – those embarking on their IoT learning journey.
Aligning Title with Content: A Strategic and Pragmatic Approach
The choice of “IoT: A Beginner’s Guide” was not solely about leveraging popular search keywords.
It was a thoughtful alignment of the book’s title with its core offering – an accessible, comprehensive introduction to IoT for beginners.
This title clearly defined the book’s target audience and content scope, increasing the likelihood of reaching readers seeking a foundational understanding of IoT.
Reflecting on the Journey: Emotional Attachment vs. Market Realities
Looking back, the evolution of my eBook’s title reflects a deepened understanding of the dynamics of the digital marketplace.
While “IoT Adventure” and “IoT Frontier” were titles I held close to my heart, the final choice of “IoT: A Beginner’s Guide” was a decision driven by pragmatism, market insights, and a clear comprehension of my audience’s needs and search behaviors.
Key Lessons Learned: The Importance of Title in Digital Content Strategy
This journey in renaming my eBook has been illuminating, teaching me a crucial lesson about digital content strategy.
It emphasized that the success of written work in the digital age is not solely about the content but also how it is presented to the world. A compelling title is a beacon, directing the right readers to your work.
It is a harmonious blend of creativity and analytics, art and science.
Advice to Fellow Authors and Content Creators
To fellow authors and content creators, I offer this advice: When devising a title, consider its reflection of your content and its performance in the competitive online search landscape.
A title is more than just a name; it is a vital, and often the most crucial, marketing tool in your arsenal.
Balancing creative expression with strategic marketing considerations ensures your work finds its audience in the vast digital expanse.
Dr. Mazlan Abbas 