Chapter 1: Introduction to Medium's Changes

Should you feel guilty for wanting to earn more from your writing? Since I began consistently writing at the start of this year, I've published several pieces since joining Medium in 2019.

I've observed the significant changes Medium has undergone, particularly regarding the earning potential for writers. It's clear to me that the landscape has become more challenging.

In the past, it was easier to get your work in front of a broader audience and earn a decent income. This doesn't imply that anyone could simply put out subpar content and expect financial rewards.

In my view, there are two primary factors influencing this shift:

1. Increased competition among writers.
2. A more complex algorithm governing content visibility.

Now, merely crafting a compelling story isn't enough to guarantee earnings.

Section 1.1: Has Medium's Approach Changed?

I don't think Medium is actively trying to hinder writers from making money. The challenges I refer to aren't designed to punish writers; instead, they aim to foster high-quality writing.

We must acknowledge two key points:

• The algorithm isn't flawless, but it is necessary in today's context, especially considering the rise of AI-generated content and clickbait.
• Many writers resist adapting to these changes yet express frustration over low earnings.

Subsection 1.1.1: Earning on Medium Today

One of the most effective ways to increase your earnings is by getting your stories "Boosted" by Medium. There are strategies to enhance the appeal of your writing to the curation team.

Medium prioritizes substance over mere attention-grabbing content. In a recent interview, Tony Stubblebine, CEO of Medium, expressed:

"The thing I’m most proud of is to pivot out of the attention economy. Everything that is wrong on the internet stems from ad-driven businesses emphasizing attention over substance."

I highly recommend watching the full interview:

Tony reiterated similar points during a recent Pub Crawl event. It's evident that Medium encourages writers to focus on creating meaningful content rather than chasing fleeting popularity or clickbait strategies.

Section 1.2: Understanding the Boosting Process

This approach has proven effective for my articles, and I’ve seen writers like Sílvia PM, PhD, achieve impressive results with multiple boosts. Check out her article detailing her boosted stories; I wouldn't be surprised if that number continues to grow.

However, it's unfair to say, "If you want to earn more, just get boosted!" since that outcome isn't entirely within our control.

As Robin Wilding pointed out in a related piece, it's crucial to invest more time in the writing, editing, and publication processes. For those interested in which publications can help you get boosted, this article on "90+ Publications That Can Boost You" is a valuable resource.

Chapter 2: Final Reflections on Medium's Evolution

In conclusion, I don't believe the recent transformations at Medium are aimed at preventing writers from earning a fair wage. However, many talented writers are still struggling to receive adequate compensation for their skills.

It's important not to feel ashamed of wanting fair pay for your dedication and effort. My hope is that this article assists writers in navigating Medium's changing landscape more effectively.

Thank you for reading! Subscribe to receive my upcoming Medium stories via email and join my Substack newsletter, “To Be an Online Writer.”

The second video titled "Is Writing on Medium Worth Your Time?" offers insights on whether writing on the platform is a valuable endeavor.