Followers vs. Readers

While it’s true that articles from writers with numerous followers tend to receive more reads, my experience tells a different story. With about 160 followers, my reads per article range from 0 to 20. This discrepancy has shifted my perspective on gaining followers.

I’ll continue to engage with fellow writers—reading, clapping, and commenting on stories that interest me—but I’m opting for a more organic approach to growing my audience. If you’re not genuinely interested in my work, I won’t take offense if you don’t follow me. Authenticity is key. I’ve noticed my follower count rising naturally as I focus on quality interactions rather than forcing connections.

The Mysterious Payment Algorithm

The payment structure on Medium resembles a complex equation with few known variables: primarily the 30-second rule and the Friends of Medium program. Your article is considered read only if a reader spends at least 30 seconds on it, and the Friends of Medium program can yield higher earnings.

However, the other factors influencing earnings are numerous and varied. For example, despite having just 25 views on one article, I earned $3.90, while another piece with 9 views earned me only $2.61. The earnings can fluctuate wildly, making it clear that obsessing over stats is unproductive. Ultimately, the focus should remain on writing what you enjoy, with the hope that readers will find you.

The Life Cycle of a Story

Typically, an article's peak reads occur within 48 hours of publication, often hitting a high within the first 12 to 24 hours before fading away. Occasionally, a story may experience a resurgence, perhaps through being highlighted in a publication’s top picks, but such boosts are rare.

This pattern underscores the importance of frequent posting and interlinking articles to guide readers to older works. Maximizing the initial 48 hours with a compelling title and effective SEO strategies is crucial.

The Value of Publications

How beneficial are Medium publications? While many successful self-published authors have impressive read counts, they also tend to have substantial follower bases. For emerging writers, publications can effectively showcase your work to a broader audience.

When selecting publications, it's wise to diversify your choices and experiment to find the best fit. Larger, well-known publications offer greater potential reach but also come with stricter rules and increased competition. In my own experience, I published similar articles in both small and large publications, noticing little difference in outcomes.

Be mindful of publications that can nominate your work for Medium boosts, as they can help elevate your articles, although acceptance and publication processes can be lengthy.

Consistency is Key

As my earnings from Medium remain modest and don’t yet cover my membership costs, I find myself seeking a healthy balance between my writing endeavors and everyday life. While I encourage regular posting, it doesn’t have to happen daily. Writing when inspired is more meaningful.

Some days, I might produce several articles in one afternoon but choose to stagger their publication. Additionally, be aware that submissions may sit in review for a day or two. Building a reservoir of articles can be invaluable during times of writer’s block or when life gets busy.

Final Thoughts

Reflecting on my journey thus far, I’m grateful for the opportunity to share my thoughts and to be compensated for it. It’s rewarding when readers find value in my writing. Thank you for joining me on this journey, and here’s to your own adventures on Medium!

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