avatarSusie Kearley

Summary

Medium's recent algorithm changes may benefit new writers by providing them with more opportunities to earn money and gain visibility.

Abstract

The article discusses the potential positive impact of Medium's algorithm changes on new writers. Despite some established writers experiencing a decline in earnings, the new algorithm aims to give smaller writers a chance to succeed. There are examples of new writers, such as Robert Ralph and Edward John, who have seen significant increases in their earnings since the changes. The article suggests that persistence in writing, engaging with the community, and producing content that resonates with readers are key to success on Medium. It also notes that it might take around 150 articles for a writer to make a substantial impression on the platform. Additionally, readers are encouraged to support writers by subscribing to Medium for $5 per month, with the option to use the author's referral link.

Opinions

  • The algorithm change is seen as a positive shift to democratize earnings and visibility for new writers on Medium.
  • There is a belief that the change has led to a decrease in earnings for previously successful writers, but it has opened up opportunities for newcomers.
  • The article posits that with dedication and engagement, new writers can achieve financial success on Medium.
  • The author's theory suggests that Medium's intention behind the algorithm change was to distribute earnings more evenly among a broader range of writers.
  • The article implies that reaching a certain quantity of articles (around 150) can be a turning point for a writer's success on the platform.
  • The author encourages readers to become paying members of Medium, emphasizing the direct support this provides to writers.

Medium’s Changes Might Be A Good Thing for Newbies

It could mean you get to earn more

Photo by Laura Pratt on Unsplash

I expect you’ve seen some stories recently about changes to the Medium algorithm and how some writers are earning less than they once did. Well, I’m here to say, don’t despair. This might be a good thing.

I’m no insider. I don’t know how the algorithm changed, or when, but I keep asking what changed and being met by a deafening silence. Then recently, someone finally gave up his theory of what happened...

The theory is that only about 1% of Medium writers were gaining much traction and earning a lot on the platform. Medium wanted to give smaller writers more of a chance to earn well. So they changed things to show more stories by the newbies like you and me, and fewer by established writers, who had previously been dominating the platform.

This obviously means the big earners saw a fall in earnings, but relatively new arrivals like Robert Ralph, the founder of this publication, astonishingly hit over $300 in October. In fact, many new writers are getting good returns. Edward John who joined in July also hit nearly $300 in October, an increase of over 1000% compared to his September earnings.

So it can be done. You’ve just got to keep writing, find out what works for you, what readers enjoy, and keep commenting on posts, meeting new people, and making new connections.

So does that make you feel happier about the possibilities here? More money for the small fish in the big pond?

Remember, that’s just a theory and there may be more to it. But the bottom line is some new people seem to have cracked monetisation of their stories quickly, so it’s definitely possible.

If you’re still feeling low and struggling to get started, I’ve heard it takes 150 articles to really make an impression. I’ve started to get better results since I hit that mark, so keep at it, and hopefully things will improve.

Would you like to read unlimited articles on Medium? It costs $5 per month and supports your favourite writers. Use my referral link to sign up, and you’ll support me directly with a portion of your fee, at no extra cost to yourself.

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