What it Looks Like to Spend a Week on Medium
One Writer Weaves a Tale
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Fairly new Medium writer Brea offers some insight on what it’s like to be a new Medium writer. She tells the story of finding followers, publishing, and just looking for things to read here. Of course, the quality of writing is, well, all over the place. But there’s a good chance you can find something enjoyable here. And if you practice your writing and hone your skill, you can build an audience.
Here’s her assessment of what’s out there on Medium:
Medium is very noisy.
There are some profoundly intelligent pieces of content on this platform that are clearly written by knowledgeable experts and talented writers. But, don’t let that intimidate you because your voice has a place here (within the rules and guidelines of Medium), it may take a while for others to find you but give it time and they will.
I have to say I agree with this assessment. Medium is noisy. There’s a lot to sort through. But I find pieces to read every day. I’ve discovered some writers I really like here and reading daily improves my writing.
I’ve also found that publishing regularly makes my writing better. I’m often surprised by the pieces that seem to gain traction. Then, I try to learn the lesson — what are the key elements that draw in readers (catchy headlines, of course) and how can I replicate them? After the headline that might draw someone in, there needs to be CONTENT. Clear, concise, content that meets the readers needs or satisfies their curiosity. Solid research, clear formatting, and at least decent grammar and structure are all important.
What Brea suggests, though, is that Medium is about community. Instead of just reading a piece, engage with it. The writers here will respond and will likely take a moment to engage with your content. That’s what makes Medium a valuable platform, in my view.
What’s your Medium story? How do you get the most out of reading and writing here?
