Summary
The article discusses the tendency of some writers on Medium to critique and grade the articles they read, despite not being published in prestigious outlets themselves, and emphasizes the importance of engagement and support on the platform.
Abstract
The author reflects on a subset of writer-readers on Medium who approach articles with a critical grading mindset, similar to high school assignments. These writers often complain about the lack of readership for their own work, yet they themselves are selective with their applause, ranging from 1 clap for mediocre content to 5 for decent work. Despite their critical stance, they have not achieved publication in renowned outlets like the New York Times. The article suggests that these writers may be dealing with rejection or harboring a sense of superiority over mainstream publications. The author points out that Medium is designed for engagement and that claps not only encourage other writers but also influence the platform's algorithm, potentially increasing viewership and expanding one's audience. The author encourages a more supportive attitude and celebrates their own success in building a community of 30,000 followers on NewsBreak, offering strategies for introverted bloggers to network effectively.
Opinions
- The author perceives a paradox in writers who grade articles harshly yet lament their own lack of readership.
- These writers may be using a critical approach to mask their own experiences of rejection from high-profile publications.
- There is a suggestion that some writers may claim they are above being published in well-known publications as a defense mechanism.
- The author believes that Medium's platform is designed for engagement, not just critique, and that claps are a form of currency that can lead to increased visibility.
- The author promotes a culture of support and encouragement among Medium users, advocating for more generous applause to foster a positive community.
- The author shares their personal achievement of amassing a large following on NewsBreak, implying that a supportive approach contributes to successful community building.
