Just Starting on Medium? — Think Twice…
Here are my pros and cons. Correct me if I’m wrong.
I just started writing on Medium a month ago.
I’m aware it is not enough time to make any significant conclusions. I also understand this topic is well covered on Medium. Very recently a writer I follow has published something quite similar.
However, I feel I want to spark a conversation with some of you.
Consider this to be a social media post, not an article.
Oh, one more thing.
I want to offer a perspective to all writers who just need those 100 followers to start earning. There are those who will never charge a penny on Medium and don’t have an equal chance.
And they still write.
What is Medium?
From what I’ve experienced so far, Medium is not really a writing platform. Or a platform for writers…
It’s more of a social media network where you post meaningful long-form statuses and read others.
As a bonus, you have a chance to get paid for these posts.
Considering the fact that it’s social media, it is considerably limited in terms of connecting with people. And quite rich when it comes to creating articles.
Pros Of Writing On Medium
- There are a lot of wonderful people and writers on Medium. It is literally a gold mine of writers from whom you can learn. And with whom you might get a chance to have a discussion.
- Freedom to write about anything you want. And grow an audience. It’s quite a free world whether you are an expert or a generalist and still succeed.
- You just have to write and post. Everything else is done for you in terms of publishing. You don’t have to create a website or worry too much about marketing.
- It’s a portfolio of your work. If you write for a living, Medium is your proof of work. There are no NDAs and you can showcase everything you are able to do for your prospects.
- Medium is a marketing channel. I’ve seen a lot of successful writers outside of Medium, writing on Medium to get loyal readers. It’s a great platform to find new or to nurture relationships with readers. Plus, all your original work can be republished on Medium as canonical content.
- You have a chance of becoming a thought leader. The platform is there, and if you push enough effort and quality you can become a well-respected thought leader. The very fact this is possible should be well respected without even considering earning money.
- You can earn money. Of course, this is a plus and a goal that makes sense for professional writers. However, it seems sometimes Medium is a modern-day story of the California Gold Rush. Except there is no gold and you won’t become as rich even if you find it.
- I see no hate. That is really saying a lot about the audience and platform management. Nice! (but is there enough criticism then???)
Cons of Writing on Medium
- It takes a lot of time to get any results. You most likely won’t get any significant following within a year and you won’t get paid enough. If you don’t like writing or don’t have a clear reason on why you’re writing on Medium, you might get disappointed. I’m not trying to discourage anyone, but it’s reality. You can make it anywhere, and the medium is not the easiest way.
- There is no (easy) way to get paid if you don’t own Stripe. Yes, Stripe is only supported in 37 countries. If yours is not on the list, go stare at the sun. Or perhaps, read one of many articles that explain how to bypass this painful impediment. (I don’t even want to bother ye)
- It’s not that easy to connect with people. Follow, unfollow, comment, clap, and leave it at that. There are no public threads, in-mails, messages, or any other more personal or significant way to engage with other writers. I think the platform would have fewer robots in the comment section and more meaningful conversation if any of this was possible. This would make the platform even more attractive in the future and help solve problems. This is a big step, I get it. But hey, why would you have to go on Facebook to reach a writer you want to connect with?
- It’s hard to get among the top 10% and stay there. Same as with everything in life… I won’t elaborate :D
- There could be more value for readers. Honestly, I see so many of the same articles. I’m not doubting anyone’s originality and I even blame the algorithm on this. You should write anything that pops up to you, I support that! I just keep seeing too much of the same stuff on my Medium dashboard. You probably saw 50 of these types of articles as well. Please, I would appreciate any advice to change this with the algorithm if it’s possible. I crave new and fresh topics and articles.
Conclusion?
There are more pros and cons, but this will do so far.
Please if you have comments, feel free to engage and share your experience. Send me a link to one of your pieces about the subject, I will read it gladly.
