Writing on Medium

Demystifying the Medium Algorithm: How to Get Your Writing Noticed

Unlock the Secrets to Getting Your Writing Noticed and Building a Loyal Readership

Tyler Lubben BBA
WriteWise
Published in
4 min readMay 15, 2024

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Photo by Aziz Acharki on Unsplash

Ever poured your heart into a Medium post, only to see it vanish? You’re not alone. Many writers face this challenge on this platform. The good news: cracking the Medium algorithm is entirely doable, and I’m here to guide you through it.

Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash

The Enigma of the Medium Algorithm

Medium’s algorithm can seem like an impenetrable fortress, but understanding it is the first step toward mastering it. At its core, Medium’s algorithm prioritizes content that engages readers. It looks at metrics like reading time, claps, responses, and shares to gauge the popularity and relevance of your post.

Key Factors Influencing Visibility

  1. Reading Time: The longer readers stay on your post, the more valuable Medium considers it. Engage your audience with compelling stories and clear, concise writing.
  2. Claps: Claps are Medium’s equivalent of likes. The more claps your post receives, the higher it will rank.
  3. Responses: Encouraging readers to leave comments can significantly boost your post’s visibility.
  4. Shares: When readers share your post, it signals to Medium that your content is worth spreading.

We write to taste life twice, in the moment and in retrospect.

Anaïs Nin

Strategic Insights for Increasing Your Visibility

1. Leverage Tags Effectively

Tags are your ticket to being discovered on Medium. They help categorize your content and make it easier for readers interested in specific topics to find your posts.

  • Choose Relevant Tags: Use tags that accurately represent your article’s main themes. Medium allows up to five tags per post, so choose ones that are broad enough to reach a wide audience but specific enough to attract your target readers.
  • Research Popular Tags: Look at trending tags in your niche to see what’s currently capturing readers’ interest. Incorporate these into your posts to increase your chances of being discovered.

One day I will find the right words, and they will be simple.

Jack Kerouac, The Dharma Bums

2. Partner with Publications

Medium publications can amplify your reach significantly. These are collections of articles curated around specific themes and topics, often with established readerships.

  • Identify Relevant Publications: Search for publications that align with your content. Look for those with a strong following and active engagement.
  • Submit Your Work: Each publication has its own submission guidelines. Follow these guidelines carefully and submit your best work. Remember, editors seek quality content that resonates with their audience.

You must stay drunk on writing so reality cannot destroy you.

Ray Bradbury, Zen in the Art of Writing

3. Engage with the Community

Engagement is a two-way street. To get your work noticed, be an active participant in the Medium community.

  • Comment on Other Posts: Leave thoughtful comments on articles within your niche. This builds relationships with other writers and increases your visibility as readers may check out your profile.
  • Clap and Share: Show appreciation for other writers’ work by clapping and sharing their posts. Reciprocity plays a big role in building a supportive network on Medium.

Words can be like X-rays if you use them properly — they’ll go through anything. You read and you’re pierced.

Aldous Huxley, Brave New World

4. Optimize Your Headline and Introduction

Your headline and introduction are the first things readers see. Make sure they’re compelling enough to draw people in.

  • Craft Attention-Grabbing Headlines: Use strong, clear language and incorporate keywords that your target audience is likely searching for.
  • Write Captivating Introductions: Start with a hook that piques curiosity or addresses a common pain point. This will encourage readers to continue reading.

Let me live, love, and say it well in good sentences.

Sylvia Plath, The Unabridged Journals of Sylvia Plath

5. Publish Consistently

Consistency is key when it comes to building an audience on Medium. Try to publish regularly, whether that’s once a week or bi-weekly. Regular posting keeps you on readers’ radars and signals to Medium’s algorithm that you’re an active contributor.

You can make anything by writing.

C.S. Lewis

Embrace the Journey

Every successful Medium writer started somewhere. Embrace both the successes and setbacks along the way. Remember, every post is a learning experience. Analyze what works and what doesn’t, and continuously refine your strategy.

A word after a word after a word is power.

Margaret Atwood

Take Action Today

Ready to boost your Medium visibility? Implement these strategies and watch your readership grow. Remember, the journey to becoming a recognized writer on Medium is a marathon, not a sprint. Stay persistent, keep writing, and most importantly, enjoy the process.

Feel free to share your experiences and tips in the comments below. Let’s build a supportive community where we can all learn and grow together. Happy writing!

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Tyler Lubben BBA
WriteWise

Travel, Writing Advice and Finance Writer. Published Author.