Breaking News

Last year, a platform named News Break became the go-to destination for writers. Based in Silicon Valley, it functioned as a local news aggregator, reaching out to content creators for contributions. I joined in November 2020, attracted by their guaranteed base pay and the option to repurpose existing content.

I quickly built a following, and as the platform's revenue model evolved, my early adoption paid off. New requirements made it harder for newcomers to thrive, while my established presence allowed my earnings to soar. Just six months in, News Break became my primary income source, even as new writers struggled to find their footing.

The Ups and Downs

Towards the end of 2021, News Break altered its creator revenue model yet again, which led to a decline in earnings and prompted many creators to exit. I reduced my involvement but enjoyed significant success during my first year, primarily due to my early entry and audience engagement.

As a result, I even received the "Buzzmaker of the Year" award for having the most shared articles on the platform. This achievement was undoubtedly tied to my commitment to understanding what content resonated with the audience.

The Early Bird Gets the Worm

While I’ve never ventured into cryptocurrency, an invitation from a crypto-based platform piqued my interest. The platform, called Sapien, promised to collaborate closely with creators to build an audience. Their marketing pitch was compelling, emphasizing support from a "Creator Evangelist" to ensure success.

After my initial meeting with Jock, my designated mentor, I felt optimistic. He engaged with my questions and offered marketing support for my content. Excited, I referred fellow writers to him, anticipating a significant opportunity for all of us.

Ghosted by the Worm

After several training and feedback sessions, communication from Sapien began to dwindle. My referrals reached out, expressing concerns about a lack of follow-up from Jock. After a month of silence, I was informed that Jock had left the company, and I was introduced to his replacement. Unfortunately, I never received any further communication.

Despite investing time and effort into the platform, my recommendations to others had backfired, leaving both me and the writers I referred feeling frustrated.

The 6 Key Considerations

Receiving an invitation to a new platform can be thrilling, but it’s crucial to approach with caution. Based on my experiences—some positive and many not—I’ve compiled six essential factors to consider before diving in:

1. User-Friendly Interface

   The platform should have an intuitive interface that allows for seamless content uploads. As a creator, you should focus on producing content, not navigating complex systems.

2. Engagement Levels

   Examine the interaction on existing content. Are users actively engaging with posts through likes and comments, or does the platform seem deserted? Early signs of engagement are vital.

3. Community Feedback

   Explore social media and creator forums to gauge the buzz surrounding the platform. Are creators excited, or are they voicing concerns?

4. Communication Quality

   Assess how well the platform communicates with potential users. Is there ongoing support, and are queries answered promptly?

5. Financial Backing

   Investigate who is behind the platform. Is it a reputable company or a solo entrepreneur? Understanding the financial stability can influence your decision.

6. Intuition

   Sometimes, your gut feeling matters most. Do your interactions feel positive and supportive? A good vibe can indicate a creator-centric environment.

As a content creator, the current landscape is brimming with opportunities. However, it’s equally important to exercise caution and consider your options carefully. It might just save you from a situation like my experiences with News Break and Sapien.

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