Writing on Medium
5 Essential Tips for New Medium Writers
Avoid common pitfalls and thrive on Medium with these insider strategies.
Jumping into Medium feels like starting an exciting adventure — it’s a bit daunting, incredibly thrilling, and oh so rewarding. I’ve been through the journey myself, and trust me, it’s an adventure you don’t want to miss. But as with any adventure, there are a few pitfalls you’ll want to steer clear of. Drawing from my own rollercoaster of experiences and observations, let me share with you the five key missteps you’d do well to avoid.
Words are sacred. They deserve respect. If you get the right ones, in the right order, you can nudge the world a little.
Tom Stoppard
1. Not Giving Your Title the Spotlight It Deserves
Think of your article’s title as the first hello to your readers. My journey taught me that even the most compelling stories can fade into the background with a lackluster title. Your title should be like a bright, inviting sign that draws readers into your world. It’s your chance to be creative — make it intriguing, thought-provoking, and a true mirror of what’s to come in your piece.
If you do not hear music in your words, you have put too much thought into your writing and not enough heart.
Terry Brooks
2. Forgetting You’re Part of a Vibrant Community
When I first started, I treated Medium more like a diary — posting and then just waiting. Big mistake. Medium is alive with writers, readers, and commentators all interacting with one another. The real magic happens when you dive into this flow — comment on others’ work, cheer them on, and engage with those who leave feedback on your stories. It’s all about building connections.
No one else sees the world the way you do, so no one else can tell the stories that you have to tell.
Charles de Lint
3. Overlooking the Power of Presentation
Ever clicked on an article only to be met by a daunting wall of text? If you’re anything like me, you probably clicked away fast. Breaking your content into digestible chunks, using subheadings, and adding images can make all the difference in keeping your readers engaged.
Writing is an act of faith, not a grammar trick.
E.B. White
4. Underestimating the Magic of the Right Tags
Tags are like the secret sauce for getting your article seen. At first, I used broad, generic tags — not the best approach. Spend a little time finding those perfect, niche tags that fit your topic like a glove. This bit of effort can send your article soaring in visibility.
You may not write well every day, but you can always edit a bad page. You can’t edit a blank page.
Jodi Picoult
5. Choosing Virality Over Genuine Value
We’ve all dreamt of writing that one viral post, but I’ve found that aiming just for virality can miss the mark. Focus on sharing your unique perspective, tell stories that light you up, and pour genuine value into your content. Authenticity wins hearts more than chasing the viral dream.
Remember, every seasoned Medium writer once stood where you are now. It’s perfectly okay to stumble; it’s part of the journey. With these tips in your back pocket, you’re better equipped to navigate the path ahead. Keep sharpening your craft, stay true to your passion for storytelling, and enjoy the ride. Here’s to writing that moves, engages, and connects!
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