Unlocking Success as a Writer: Understanding Medium's Distribution
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Chapter 1: The Shift Toward Personal Stories
In recent times, there's been a notable trend towards personal narratives, driven by a growing reader preference for stories that resonate on a personal level.
This raises the question: Have articles focused on monetizing Medium lost their appeal? The answer varies based on perspective. Numerous writers share strategies and insights into how they gained followers, boosted their statistics, and enjoyed financial success.
Typically, after an algorithm change, such advice may quickly lose relevance unless the authors can swiftly adapt and revise their "insider secrets." These types of articles often attract readers keen on earning money through writing. However, many are unaware that the success of an article is influenced by three distinct distribution categories on Medium.
Do you consider these factors when crafting your content? Medium's three distribution categories include:
Section 1.1: Category 1 - Boosted Content
As you might expect, a boosted article reaches a larger audience, potentially resulting in numerous views and increased revenue. I recently heard a boost nominator discuss the competitive nature of the nomination process for personal stories, given their rising popularity.
As a writer of personal stories, I've received 12 boosts thus far. Here's the latest one, should you be curious. Each boost has led to engaging interactions, although most commenters were one-time participants. Essentially, once the initial excitement fades, you might find yourself back in the same position you were before the boost—or perhaps not.
Subsection 1.1.1: Category 2 - General Distribution
In this category, articles are aligned with readers based on their interests and following. This is the typical distribution method for stories on Medium. For instance, one of my posts, published shortly before the boosted article, achieved similar engagement levels.
It seems that it resonated well with readers interested in nature and photography, with a personal touch (wink, wink). However, this isn't always guaranteed. Occasionally, the algorithm can bury an article within hours of its publication. Why does this happen? You might find this concerning. Can you relate?
Section 1.2: Category 3 - Network Only
The classic example of a network-only article is the one you are currently reading. As a Meta article discussing Medium itself, it's likely to be seen primarily by my followers and those connected to the publication in which I wrote.
If you think this limits its visibility, think again! I have always valued community, especially in light of the recent wave of account suspensions that left many writers, including myself, reeling. In response, I shared my reflections, and the community chimed in with their perspectives.
Chapter 2: Engaging with Medium's Distribution Categories
This first video, "Shopify Tutorial For Beginners 2024 - COMPLETE GUIDE," provides an in-depth look at setting up your Shopify store, including tips for engaging an audience and maximizing your reach.
In the second video, "Simon Sinek: The Number One Reason Why You're Not Succeeding | E145," Simon Sinek discusses key reasons for lack of success and how to overcome them, which can be beneficial for writers looking to improve their engagement and visibility.