Understanding Platform Choices

Having witnessed numerous writing platforms rise and fall, I’ve observed many writers claiming they're "leaving Medium," only to return shortly after. The truth is, the primary reason many creators abandon platforms isn't due to the platform's decline but rather their own misguided reasons for leaving.

The most common mistake new creators make is selecting the wrong platforms. Often, they choose based on fear of missing out.

Consider the buzz surrounding Clubhouse when it first emerged or how swiftly everyone jumped onto Threads last year. Many believe that early adoption is the key to audience growth. However, the reality is that being an early adopter is often overrated.

You can cultivate an audience on any platform, regardless of its age. Personally, I avoid brand-new platforms due to the inherent risks; their longevity is uncertain. In contrast, established platforms provide a sense of security, as they’ve proven their staying power.

Platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and Medium offer vast outreach potential if you learn to navigate them effectively. The challenge for new creators lies in understanding algorithms, hooks, and audience engagement.

As a result, many individuals choose platforms based solely on popularity, neglecting to evaluate what aligns with their own goals.

My Preference for Medium

I chose to write on Medium because I resonate with the concept of long-form content. I appreciate that I don’t need to produce a constant stream of content to attract readers. I can focus solely on writing and still reach my audience.

Throughout my nearly ten years of content creation, I explored various platforms: posting on Instagram, producing YouTube videos, and crafting numerous Pinterest Pins. While I don’t dislike being on camera, I found the pressure to create the perfect visual overwhelming. I needed to look my best, have good lighting, and be in a serene environment—all of which added stress.

Once I discovered Medium, I felt an immediate connection; it was simpler and less demanding than my previous endeavors. I could delve deeply into my thoughts rather than skimming the surface in brief Instagram posts. I could write whenever and wherever I wanted, needing only my laptop—no internet access required. I could write in my comfortable clothes, and I was even getting paid for it.

While Medium may not be the perfect fit for everyone, it was for me because I had explored various options and understood my preferences.

If you’re new to online writing, you might still be figuring out what suits you best. However, if any of the following resonate with you, Medium could be an excellent choice:

• You write in English.
• Your content is non-fiction.
• You draw from personal experiences.
• You genuinely care about your topics.
• You enjoy writing!

It’s vital to note that many people start writing on Medium without a passion for it, which can lead to frustration and quick burnout. Writing well requires time and dedication.

Understanding Why Creators Leave Platforms

Let’s discuss why even seasoned writers sometimes depart from Medium or other platforms. There are two primary reasons:

1. The platform no longer aligns with their goals and priorities.
2. They become frustrated by a decline in the results they once achieved.

A third factor, which I won’t delve into here, is burnout and overwhelm.

There’s no shame in leaving a platform that no longer serves you. Most creators desire to earn a living from their work, and if a platform falls short of that objective, seeking alternatives or adjusting your strategy is wise.

If you’ve been on Medium for years and are struggling to attract readers, it’s likely time for a change in approach. Many beginners mistakenly believe that consistency alone will drive growth, but without intentional practice, improvement is unlikely.

Simply repeating the same actions won’t yield the desired outcomes. If you resist adjusting your methods, exploring other platforms may be more beneficial.

The second reason for leaving is more intriguing: creators often abandon platforms when they no longer see the same outcomes. After six years on Medium, I’ve navigated numerous significant changes.

When I joined the Partner Program, earnings were based on the number of claps each piece received. I’ve witnessed the rise and fall of various publications and changes to the referral system. Naturally, my own experiences and results have varied based on my creative output and the evolving platform.

While many writers express frustration over changes, I choose to view them as opportunities. Platforms like Medium are designed to evolve; it’s the nature of the internet. As we progress, the pace of change will only increase.

If you struggle with adapting to changes, you may find the process of audience-building and income generation challenging.

Remember, platforms like Medium don’t owe you anything. One month, you could reach a million readers, and the next, only a fraction. This is perfectly normal—the attention you gain on external platforms is merely temporary. You don’t own that audience; you’re borrowing their attention momentarily.

Choosing the Right Platform

As I’ve mentioned before, there’s no “perfect” platform for audience growth. Each platform can help you expand your reach and share your message if you understand how to leverage it effectively.

What truly matters is having clear objectives, which will guide you in selecting the right options for your needs. If writing isn’t your passion, Medium may not be the best fit.

If you thrive on the rapid pace of platforms like LinkedIn or Twitter, where you can produce multiple short posts daily, you might find Medium unengaging. However, if you have compelling stories, insights, or experiences to share and appreciate the idea of crafting longer, more meaningful narratives, you might find joy in writing on Medium just as I have.

While the choice of platform does matter, many overlook the fact that you have the power to shape your experience on any platform. It’s essential to allocate your time, energy, and resources wisely.

As a writer on Medium, establishing a newsletter is crucial to engage with your readers through different channels. If your goal is to earn a living from writing, consider having multiple monetization strategies in place.

Understanding your audience is vital; you should know who they are, why they should care about your work, and how to differentiate yourself from countless other writers. Without clarity on these points, maximizing your efforts can be challenging.

Ultimately, platforms like Medium are one of many avenues for capturing attention, building an audience, and sharing your message. Traditional PR, paid advertising, and various other methods also exist.

However, if I had to start anew, I would once again share my thoughts and experiences on Medium, as it remains the most accessible option for those beginning their writing journey.

Curious to learn more? I offer a free 5-Day Course on how to grow your audience and income on Medium. Sign up here.

Or download my complimentary Cheatsheet with 15 tips for crafting better content.