Chapter 1: Introduction to Making Money on Medium

Making money online is often perceived as complicated, yet it can be quite straightforward if you focus on the right details.

Before embarking on any new venture, it’s crucial to do thorough research to set yourself up for success. On Medium, readers frequently transition into writers, and many writers are here to monetize their craft—myself included.

While some individuals may take months to find their footing, others achieve success relatively quickly. Personally, I published over ten articles after joining the Medium Partner Program (MPP), exploring various topics, tags, and styles. However, only one of those pieces gained significant traction.

Initially, my goal during the first month of MPP was simply to break even, matching my subscription fee. Remarkably, I achieved this goal within just ten days and even earned nearly double that amount.

What was the key to this success? The answer lies in Publications.

Publications on Medium are incredibly powerful. A dedicated team reviews your articles and shares them with their audience without asking for payment in return. They essentially offer you access to their readership at no cost. In exchange, all you need to do is create compelling content that resonates and provides value.

Many Medium articles tend to lack originality; they often recycle existing ideas without personal insights or expertise. It's essential to understand that true growth requires three key elements. While an opinion piece might occasionally gain traction, it’s not a sustainable path for growth.

Before revealing three trending publications on Medium, let’s summarize the key takeaways I've gathered:

1. Choose a Niche: Be specific and focused. Avoid trying to be a jack-of-all-trades; this will dilute your expertise.
2. Branding Matters: Many overlook the importance of branding, but it can significantly impact your growth—up to 30%. First impressions count; if a reader finds an unformatted or poorly written article, they are unlikely to return.
3. Prioritize Quality: Never write just for the sake of writing. Readers’ time is precious, and if you waste it, they won’t return. Quality should always take precedence over quantity.

When one of your articles goes viral, the Medium algorithm will promote your older content to new audiences. Therefore, every piece you write should be worthwhile.

Avoid asking for donations or support when you're just starting out; your focus should be on providing value. If you want to monetize your work, it should stem from genuine contributions rather than a mere desire for profit.

Now, let’s explore three trending publications on Medium that can significantly elevate your writing journey.

Chapter 2: Trending Publications on Medium

The first video, "How to Create a Publication on Medium.com (Step-By-Step Tutorial)", offers a comprehensive guide for beginners looking to establish their own publication on Medium. It covers everything from setup to best practices, ensuring you’re well-equipped to start your publishing journey.

The second video, "How to Grow an Audience on Medium.com if You have 0 Followers", provides valuable insights on attracting readers, even if you’re starting from scratch. It’s a must-watch for anyone looking to expand their reach on the platform.

The first noteworthy publication is The Startup. With over 800,000 followers, it’s one of the largest on Medium, although getting published here can be competitive. Make sure to familiarize yourself with their submission guidelines before sending in your draft.

Another excellent publication is Write A Catalyst, which is rapidly gaining traction. Now is an ideal time to submit your work to this publication.

About the Author

I’m Lavleen Singh, a 26-year-old Chartered Accountant Finalist from India. I’m also a fiction writer and a full-time income generator. My interests range from writing and marketing to creating digital products. Sharing my knowledge and experiences is what drives me, and I hope my articles resonate with others on a similar journey.

If you enjoyed this article, feel free to highlight your favorite parts. Until next time, take care!