Summary

Medium has implemented significant changes to its content rules, prohibiting the republishing of deleted posts and emphasizing the importance of unique content, which has implications for writers' publishing strategies and potential earnings.

Abstract

Medium has recently updated its rules to prevent writers from deleting and republishing old content, a strategy previously used to gain more visibility on the platform. This change is part of Medium's push for unique content on its platform. The new policy has serious consequences, including potential account suspension for violations. Writers are now encouraged to bring their best work forward on their first attempt, as they will no longer have the opportunity to refresh older content. This shift, coupled with changes to the payment structure for writers, suggests that writers may earn less in the future. The changes underscore the importance of writers having their own websites to maintain control over their content. Additionally, the dynamics of publishing with Medium's publications are highlighted, with writers facing challenges if their content does not gain traction or if a publication changes its focus.

Opinions

The author expresses surprise at the severity of the new rules, indicating a significant shift in Medium's approach to content management.
The author acknowledges Medium's right to enforce unique content rules as it is their platform.
There is a sense of urgency for writers to adapt to these changes and to focus on producing high-quality content from the outset.
The author suggests that these changes further emphasize the need for writers to have their own websites to avoid being at the mercy of platform changes.
The author is optimistic and encourages writers to keep evolving and experimenting with new ways to reach their audience.
The author hints at having personal experience with the unpredictability of publications on Medium, having had their work removed after adjusting content distribution.
Despite the challenges, the author is excited about future plans and strategies for navigating the evolving landscape of writing on Medium.

Wow, Medium Just Changed Everything AGAIN For Writers

Here’s a brief summary of the changes

Last month, Medium completely changed how writers are paid. Recently, Medium changed the rules on duplicate content that will effect how many writers publish their stories.

In the past, if you had an older story that was getting no traction, you used to be able to delete it and republish the story.

Republishing and improving existing content has always been part of my publishing strategy because Medium STRONGLY favors new content.

The New Change

According to the new rules, deleting and republishing older content is not allowed anymore. It is now considered duplicate content.

Here’s a more in-depth breakdown of the new rule change.

So if you delete an old post and republish it — your account will be suspended — possibly even permanently.

Wowsers! I was a bit shocked to read this. Talk about serious penalties. Medium means business on this rule.

The Reason Medium Changed Things

I get why Medium changed this rule. They want unique content. It’s their platform. They can change it however they like.

However, this kind of big rule change is even MORE reason why you need your own website. You need your own space. If it is not your own space, someone else’s domain can change at any given moment. If you need some help with this, just drop me a line. I’d be glad to help you out.

What Does This All Mean?

Quite simply, bring your very best work to the table when publishing on Medium. You get one shot. That’s it. No more chances.

The good news is you can totally do this. You’ve been doing this. Make your writing the best you possibly can.

With the recent changes for how writers are paid, I’m thinking this means writers will likely be paid less. How much less? Time will tell. Right now, here is a summary of what a reader is worth on Medium. Clearly, things are changing really fast and will continue to change.

Publishing Content With Publications

If you publish a piece on a publication and it gets no traction, you’re flat out of luck. If a publication changes or shifts in a different direction, you’re kind of stuck too.

I’ve seen this happen quite a bit with some major publications. For example, a publication will start with one focus and then move to another focus. The length requirement changes to a minimum word count. Maybe the formatting rules change. In some cases, publications simply stop publishing content altogether.

In theory, after you publish a piece, you can remove your work from that specific publication, but do so at your own risk. A while ago, I removed a few posts from a publication, and the publication responded by deleting me as a writer. I’m not mad, just a little surprised after publishing at least 20–30 posts in that publication.

In addition, just keep in mind that your post still has that specific publish date attached to that piece too. Claps and interaction are the only way to make that piece stand out from the rest of your content.

The Takeaway

Medium’s rules always changing. And they will always keep changing. This fact means as writers, we have to constantly keep evolving too.

Keep writing as much as possible. Keep growing and trying new things to reach your audience.

I have some exciting ideas for what I’m going to do next, and I can’t wait to share those ideas with you soon.

Need some help with your writing habit? Join my free 5-Day Write First Challenge here.

Jim Woods is a bestselling author, freelance writer, and writing coach. His work has been featured in Fast Company, Life Hacker, Goinswriter, The Write Practice, and many other publications.