10 Simple Strategies I Used to Gain 1100+ Followers in My First Month
Imagine how these 10 strategies can transform YOUR Medium journey, even with a 9–5 job
Medium, the online publishing platform, has become a hub for writers looking to share their thoughts and expertise with a wider audience.
For many, gaining followers on Medium can be a challenging task, but it’s not impossible.
In my first month on Medium, I managed to accumulate over 1100 followers, all while maintaining a full-time 9–5 job.
In this guide, I’ll share my strategies and insights on how I achieved this feat, offering tips that can help you grow your Medium audience too.
Let’s dive into those 10 strategies that I applied to gain over 1100 followers and 26K+ views in my first month of writing at Medium.
1. Consistent Writing: The Power of Persistence
The foundation of my Medium journey’s success lies in one simple yet powerful principle: consistent writing. In the inaugural month of my Medium adventure, I accomplished something that might sound astounding — I published a whopping 60 articles, translating to an average of two articles per day. You might be wondering how on earth I managed to maintain such a prolific output, especially while juggling the demands of a full-time 9–5 job. Well, let me share my secrets with you; the techniques that enabled me to achieve this feat are nothing short of transformative. So, keep reading to unlock the magic of persistence and productivity.
2. The Power of a Captivating Title: Tapping into Inspiration
Inspiration is a treasure that can strike at any given moment in the realm of writing. I, however, didn’t wait for inspiration to casually stroll into my creative space. Instead, I proactively harnessed it by drawing inspiration from the articles I regularly immersed myself in.
Let me illustrate this with a concrete example: One day, as I was engrossed in an article about ChatGPT, a brilliant idea sprouted in my mind like a well-nurtured seed. I realized that I could craft an article tailored specifically for beginners who wanted to explore ChatGPT. This approach of generating article ideas from my everyday reading became an invaluable strategy that not only fueled my creative process but also ensured that I always had a wellspring of topics to explore. In the next sections, I’ll delve into how this practice played a pivotal role in my journey and how you can apply it to your own writing adventure.
3. Scouting for Topics: Cultivating the Seeds of Creativity
As I embarked on my writing journey, I made a conscious effort to scout for potential topics whenever I delved into articles on this platform. The key to success was not just reading passively but engaging actively, with my writer’s hat on.
When a promising idea sparked, I didn’t leave it to memory, which can be notoriously unreliable. Instead, I adopted a proactive approach. The moment inspiration struck, I swiftly reached for my trusty iPhone and accessed the Notes app. Here, I diligently jotted down the topic along with a succinct description of what the prospective article would encompass.
This simple yet effective practice served as a digital greenhouse, nurturing the budding concepts until they were ready to flourish into full-fledged articles. It also ensured that when I finally sat down to write, I had a treasure trove of ideas at my fingertips, eliminating the frustration of forgetting potentially brilliant topics.
In the upcoming sections, I’ll shed more light on how this method became the lifeblood of my writing process and share tips on how you can effortlessly incorporate it into your own routine.
4. Engaging with Fellow Writers: Building Bridges in the Digital Realm
In the vast and interconnected world of Medium, building meaningful relationships with fellow writers became a cornerstone of my strategy. This wasn’t a passive endeavor but an active engagement with the community that not only enriched my experience but also significantly boosted my visibility.
Here’s how I approached it: Each day, I committed myself to a routine of perusing at least 20 articles within the Medium ecosystem. But this wasn’t a mere scroll-and-read exercise; it was a deliberate effort to immerse myself in the content, appreciate the writer’s work, and offer genuine feedback.
However, my engagement didn’t stop at appreciation. I developed a secret formula for crafting comments that not only acknowledged the writer’s efforts but also subtly hinted at the potential for collaboration. My comments echoed with phrases like:
“Great article, [Writer’s Name]! It definitely deserves loads of claps! We also write about technology, cloud computing, programming, AI/ML, data science, and many other areas and will be happy to collaborate with other writers. Feel free to reach out if you would like to collaborate!”
If you choose to utilize the template provided above, please remember to replace ‘[Writer’s Name]’ with the actual name of the article’s author on which you are commenting
This technique went beyond generic appreciation and served as an open invitation to collaborate on future projects. It not only garnered me a sense of camaraderie within the Medium community but also translated into a significant uptick in followers. However, a word of caution is necessary here: moderation is key. Excessive commenting in a short span may trigger Medium’s algorithms, resulting in temporary commenting restrictions.
In the following sections, I’ll delve deeper into this strategy and offer insights on how to strike a balance between engagement and authenticity, ensuring that your interaction with fellow writers is not just a numbers game but a genuinely rewarding experience.
5. Quantity AND Quality: The Symbiotic Relationship
The age-old debate between quantity and quality often takes center stage in the world of writing. Some argue vehemently for the supremacy of quality, while others champion the cause of quantity. Yet, my journey on Medium has revealed a profound truth — these two seemingly opposing forces can, in fact, coexist in a harmonious and symbiotic relationship.
The notion of “quantity over quality” doesn’t imply a compromise on standards or the wholesale production of subpar content. Instead, it suggests a strategic approach where quantity serves as the initial stepping stone, paving the way for the eventual elevation of quality.
In my first month on Medium, I embarked on an ambitious quest to publish a staggering 60 articles, equivalent to roughly 2 articles per day. While this might seem like an audacious feat, it was a deliberate strategy aimed at saturating the platform with my content. This profusion of articles wasn’t a hasty scribbling of words but a thoughtful and well-researched endeavor.
The rationale behind this approach is simple: When you’re new to a platform, it’s crucial to establish your presence and make your name known. Readers won’t spontaneously flock to your work; you have to beckon them with a trail of breadcrumbs, each crumb represented by an article. It’s akin to a grand opening; you want to flood the market with your product before you can start refining and optimizing it.
However, the key here is not to become complacent in the pursuit of quantity. Instead, view it as a launching pad for the pursuit of quality. As you continue to churn out content, you’re not only expanding your reach but also honing your craft. Writing frequently allows you to experiment, refine your style, and identify what resonates with your audience.
But, and this is crucial, it’s not a never-ending cycle of mass production. Quantity serves as your introduction, your grand entrance into the world of Medium. Once you’ve garnered some attention, you can gradually shift your focus towards quality.
In the subsequent sections of this article, I’ll delve into the nuances of this strategy, sharing insights on how to maintain the delicate balance between quantity and quality. From time management techniques to refining your writing process, you’ll discover that these two seemingly disparate elements can, indeed, work together in perfect harmony, propelling your Medium journey to new heights.
6. Visual Appeal: The Art of Captivating Imagery
In the world of online content, the saying “a picture is worth a thousand words” couldn’t be more apt. Visuals are a potent tool in the arsenal of any writer, and they play a pivotal role in enhancing the appeal and impact of your articles. Let’s dive into the realm of visual storytelling and explore how it can elevate your Medium game.
First and foremost, it’s imperative to recognize that visuals aren’t mere garnishes to your written content; they are integral to the overall reader experience. They can breathe life into your words, break up text-heavy sections, and convey complex concepts with ease. But what constitutes an effective visual, and how can you leverage it to your advantage?
- Quality Over Quantity: When it comes to visuals, quality always takes precedence over quantity. A single, striking image that resonates with your article’s theme can leave a more profound impact than a gallery of mediocre visuals. Invest time in curating visuals that align with your content.
- Relevance Is Key: Every visual you include should have a purpose. It should complement and enhance the narrative of your article. Irrelevant or random images can confuse readers and dilute your message.
- Consistency in Style: Establishing a consistent visual style can lend a sense of cohesion to your body of work. Whether it’s a specific filter, color palette, or type of imagery, maintaining visual consistency can make your articles instantly recognizable.
- Professional Stock Images: If you’re wondering where to find high-quality visuals, stock image websites like Shutterstock are a treasure trove. Subscribing to such services provides you with access to a vast library of professional images that can elevate the visual appeal of your articles. I personally use Shutterstock to source visuals that not only align with my content but also resonate with my readers.
- Graphics and Infographics: Depending on your content, consider creating custom graphics or infographics. These visual aids can simplify complex ideas, making them more accessible to your audience. Tools like Canva and Adobe Spark can be incredibly useful for creating such visuals.
- Optimize for Readability: Ensure that your visuals don’t overpower your text. They should complement your content, not overshadow it. Pay attention to image placement, size, and alignment to maintain a balanced reading experience.
- Captioning: Don’t underestimate the power of captions. A well-crafted caption can provide context, reinforce your message, or even inject a touch of humor. It’s an additional opportunity to engage your readers.
Incorporating visuals into your articles isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about enhancing comprehension, retention, and engagement. The right image can be the visual anchor that keeps your readers immersed in your content. So, don’t underestimate the impact of visual storytelling; it’s a formidable ally in your quest to gain followers and leave a lasting impression on Medium.
7. Harnessing Support from Friends and Family
In the journey to gain a foothold on Medium, you don’t have to go it alone. Your friends and family can become your most dedicated allies, providing crucial support and helping you pave the way to success. Here’s how you can enlist their aid effectively:
- The Follow Chain: Begin by requesting your friends and family to follow your Medium profile. A growing number of followers not only boosts your credibility but also increases your visibility on the platform. When potential readers see a profile with a substantial following, it often piques their curiosity and prompts them to explore your work.
- Engagement and Interaction: Encourage your inner circle to not only follow you but also actively engage with your articles. Reading, liking, and sharing your content helps spread the word about your work. Furthermore, Medium’s algorithm tends to favor articles that receive more engagement, potentially pushing your content to a broader audience.
- The Power of Claps: Ask your friends and family to provide claps for your articles. Claps are Medium’s way of measuring reader appreciation, and articles with more claps tend to garner greater visibility. A flurry of claps from your loved ones can give your articles a significant initial boost.
- Adding to Collections: Medium allows users to create collections where they curate articles on specific topics. If your friends or family members also write on Medium or curate collections, request that they include your articles in relevant collections. This can introduce your work to new audiences interested in those topics.
- Comments and Feedback: Encourage your close circle to leave thoughtful comments on your articles. Meaningful comments not only indicate reader engagement but also contribute to a sense of community around your work. Moreover, responding to comments can spark meaningful discussions and further enhance your profile’s appeal.
- Sharing on Social Media: If your friends and family are active on social media platforms, request that they share your articles with their networks. Social media shares can significantly expand your reach beyond the confines of Medium.
- A Collective Effort: Emphasize that your Medium journey is a shared endeavor. Express your gratitude for their support and highlight how their contributions help you grow as a writer. When your friends and family feel invested in your success, they are more likely to continue supporting your endeavors.
It’s important to strike a balance between leveraging your network’s support and respecting their boundaries. Be mindful not to overwhelm them with requests, and always express your appreciation for their assistance. The backing of your loved ones can kickstart your Medium journey and lay the foundation for organic growth as you continue to craft compelling content.
8. Turbocharging Creativity with ChatGPT
The advent of AI has opened up exciting possibilities, and one tool that has proven invaluable in my Medium journey is ChatGPT. This AI-powered marvel has a knack for transforming scattered thoughts into coherent articles. Here’s how I’ve harnessed its potential:
- Brainstorm and Dump: When an idea strikes or a topic brews in my mind, I don’t rush to type out a full-fledged article. Instead, I jot down my initial thoughts and ideas in a Microsoft Word document. These notes serve as the raw material for my future articles.
- Crafting with ChatGPT: Here’s where ChatGPT steps into the creative process. Armed with my scrappy notes, I turn to this AI wizard and give it a simple command: “Create an article based on the following information.” The magic begins as ChatGPT digests my rough thoughts and starts crafting an article.
- Structure and Formatting: What truly astounds me is ChatGPT’s ability to understand the essence of my notes and create a well-structured article with proper formatting. It navigates through the introduction, body, and conclusion, maintaining a logical flow throughout.
- Refining the Gem: While ChatGPT lays the foundation, a writer’s touch is still essential. I take the article generated by ChatGPT and embark on a refining process. This involves fine-tuning sentences, enhancing readability, and injecting my personal style into the piece. It’s akin to polishing a rough gem into a dazzling jewel.
- Saving Time and Effort: The beauty of this approach is the time and effort it saves. Instead of starting from scratch, I begin with a coherent draft, courtesy of ChatGPT. This accelerates my writing process significantly, allowing me to produce more content within a limited timeframe.
A Word of Caution: While ChatGPT is a remarkable tool, it’s essential to remember that it’s not infallible. The generated articles often need refinement and a human touch to truly shine. Moreover, plagiarism checks are crucial to ensure the content remains original.
Incorporating ChatGPT into your writing workflow can be a game-changer. It transforms the way you approach article creation, making it more efficient and streamlined. While it doesn’t replace the artistry of a human writer, it certainly serves as a powerful ally in the quest for prolific and engaging content.
9. Self-Promotion on Social Media
Writing a compelling article is just the first step. To truly make an impact, you need to navigate the labyrinth of social media. Here’s how I leveraged this medium to boost my Medium presence:
- LinkedIn: A Goldmine for Writers: LinkedIn isn’t just a hub for professional networking; it’s a treasure trove for writers seeking to expand their readership. Even if your personal LinkedIn network is modest, there’s a hidden gem waiting to be discovered — LinkedIn Groups.
- Joining Relevant Groups: I delved into the world of LinkedIn Groups, particularly those aligned with my writing niche. These groups often comprise thousands of members who share a common interest. By becoming a part of these communities, I gained access to a ready-made audience interested in the topics I covered.
- Strategic Sharing: Once I joined these groups, I didn’t flood them with self-promotion. Instead, I adopted a strategic approach. When I published a new article on Medium, I shared it in these groups, but not as a mere link drop. I crafted engaging posts that introduced the article’s topic and highlighted its relevance to the group’s interests. This thoughtful approach piqued the curiosity of group members.
- Fostering Discussion: Rather than treating LinkedIn solely as a promotional platform, I actively engaged in discussions within these groups. I shared insights, asked questions, and provided valuable input on topics related to my niche. This not only established my presence but also positioned me as a knowledgeable contributor.
- The Power of Networking: LinkedIn isn’t just about broadcasting your work; it’s a realm of networking opportunities. I connected with fellow writers, industry professionals, and enthusiasts who shared my passion. These connections often resulted in cross-promotion and collaboration, further expanding my reach.
- Beyond LinkedIn: While LinkedIn was a primary channel, I didn’t limit myself to a single platform. Depending on your niche, other social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram can also be valuable. The key is to identify where your target audience congregates and strategically engage with them.
- Analytics and Adaptation: Social media isn’t a one-size-fits-all strategy. I closely monitored the performance of my posts and articles. Analytics tools provided insights into which posts garnered the most attention and engagement. This data-driven approach allowed me to refine my strategy over time.
- Consistency is Key: Just like in writing, consistency is paramount in social media promotion. I established a routine for sharing my articles and engaging with my audience. This consistency helped to build anticipation among my followers.
In the world of online content, self-promotion is the engine that propels your work to a wider audience. LinkedIn and other social media platforms are potent tools waiting to be harnessed. By strategically using these platforms, you not only increase your readership but also foster meaningful connections in your writing niche.
10. Amplifying Your Reach Through Publications
Medium publications are like portals to distinct reader communities. They can play a pivotal role in catapulting your articles to a wider and more targeted audience. Here’s how I harnessed the power of Medium publications to amplify my reach:
- Aligning with Your Niche: The first step is to identify publications that align with your writing niche. If you predominantly write about technology, like I do, seek out technology-related publications. These publications are essentially collections of articles centered around specific themes or topics.
- Why Publications Matter: When you publish an article within a Medium publication, it becomes part of that publication’s feed. This means that your article gains visibility among the followers and readers of that specific publication. It’s akin to your work being showcased in a specialized bookstore that caters to your target audience.
- Built-In Readership: Publications typically have their established readership, often consisting of individuals passionate about the publication’s niche. By having your article featured in such a publication, you automatically tap into this pre-existing, engaged audience. This is akin to stepping onto a stage already filled with an eager audience.
- Submission Process: The process of submitting an article to a publication is straightforward. Many publications have submission guidelines outlined in their profiles. They often invite writers to submit their work, and some even allow multiple submissions. It’s crucial to adhere to the specific guidelines provided by each publication.
- Enhancing Credibility: Being featured in reputable publications not only expands your readership but also enhances your credibility as a writer. Readers tend to trust articles published in well-regarded publications, which can translate into more claps, follows, and engagement.
- Cross-Promotion: Many publications actively promote their articles through their social media channels or newsletters. This cross-promotion can significantly boost the visibility of your work beyond the Medium platform.
- Building Relationships: Engaging with the editors or curators of publications can be valuable. Building relationships with them can lead to more of your articles being accepted in the future. It’s a mutually beneficial partnership as you provide quality content for their publication, and they help you reach a wider audience.
- Diversifying Your Strategy: Don’t limit yourself to a single publication. Explore multiple publications relevant to your niche. Each publication comes with its unique audience, and diversifying your strategy allows you to cast a wider net.
- Monitor Performance: As with any strategy, it’s essential to monitor the performance of your articles within publications. This can provide insights into which publications are most effective in reaching your target audience.
- Consistency Pays Off: Just like with your personal profile, consistency in publishing within publications can yield better results over time. Regularly contributing high-quality content can establish you as a reliable source within your niche.
In the dynamic ecosystem of Medium, publications are the bridges to specialized communities. By strategically selecting and contributing to these publications, you can not only expand your readership but also establish yourself as a trusted voice within your chosen domain. It’s a symbiotic relationship where your words find a more receptive audience, and readers discover valuable content aligned with their interests.
Conclusion
In my first month on Medium, I achieved a significant milestone by gaining over 1100 followers. This remarkable journey was marked by a combination of strategies and a deep passion for writing.
Consistency was the cornerstone of my success. I committed to writing and publishing regularly, often producing up to two articles a day. This consistency not only kept my audience engaged but also signaled my dedication to delivering valuable content. Drawing inspiration from the articles I read was another pivotal strategy. Whenever an intriguing topic crossed my path, I made a note of it for future articles. This approach ensured a steady flow of fresh ideas.
Engaging with fellow writers proved highly effective. By leaving thoughtful comments on their articles, I not only showed appreciation but also opened doors for potential collaborations. Building a sense of community on Medium is essential for growth. Balancing quantity and quality was crucial. While the ultimate goal is to produce high-quality content, starting with a focus on quantity helped me gain initial visibility. Over time, I refined my skills to deliver top-notch articles.
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