How to Make Money Blogging on Medium – A Streamlined Approach To Blog Content

Imagine waking up to find an extra $1,000 in your bank account. Now, picture that happening every single month. Sounds like a dream, right?

Well, for some Medium writers, it’s not just a dream—it’s their reality.

In fact, according to Medium’s own reports, the top 7% of writers on the platform earn over $100 per month, with some raking in thousands!

Today, we’re diving deep into how the Medium platform works and how a free platform is changing the game for writers everywhere.

As a beginner blogger, you need to understand this; making money on Medium isn’t just about writing quality content. It’s an art, a science, and sometimes, a bit of magic.

Don’t worry, though. By the time you finish reading this guide, you’ll have all the tricks up your sleeve to start your journey and earn money writing on Medium.

So, are you ready to learn how to make money blogging on Medium? Grab your favorite drink, get comfy, and let’s jump right in!

What is the Medium Partner Program?

Alright, let’s start with the basics. The Medium Partner Program is like the golden ticket for writers or any medium member on the platform.

It’s Medium’s way of saying, “Hey, we love your stuff, and we want to pay you for it!” Pretty cool, right?

Here’s the deal: when you join Medium’s Partner Program, you get to put your stories behind Medium’s paywall. This means that Medium members—folks who pay a monthly fee to access all the good stuff on the site—can read your work.

And guess what? Every time they do, you earn a piece of the reader’s membership fee!

Eligibility Criteria for Joining Medium Partner Program

Now, I know what you’re thinking. “This sounds awesome! How do I sign up?”

Well, hold your horses, because there are a few boxes you need to tick first:

1. You need to be at least 18 years old. (Sorry, kiddo!)

2. You’ve got to live in the eligible countries. (Medium’s expanding this list all the time and they actually did currently, so don’t worry if you’re not there yet!)

3. You need to have published at least one story on Medium. (Just one or a few stories you’re good to go)

4. You need a Stripe account to get paid. (Don’t sweat it—we’ll cover this later.)

How Medium Pays Writers Based on Member Engagement Signals

Here’s where it gets interesting. Medium.com doesn’t just pay you based on how many people read your story. Nope, they’re smarter than that.

To make money on medium, they used what they call “member engagement signals” to figure out how much your story is worth.

What does that mean? Well, it’s things like:

• How long do members spend reading your story

• Whether they clap for it (that’s Medium’s version of a “like”)

• If they comment on it

• Whether they follow you after reading

The more engaged readers are with your story, the more you earn. It’s as simple as that!

Setting Up Your Stripe Account for Payments

Last but not least, let’s talk money—specifically, how you’re going to get it. Medium uses Stripe to pay its writers. Setting up a Stripe account is pretty straightforward:

1. Go to Stripe’s website

2. Click “Start now”

3. Enter your email and create a password

4. Fill in your personal and bank account details

And voila! You’re ready to start earning.

Just remember, Medium pays out earnings on the 8th of each month for the previous month’s earnings. So if you make $100 in January, you’ll see that money hit your bank account on February 8th.

Getting Started on Medium

Now we’re done with the Medium partner program, and how you can earn money writing on medium, let rewind a little bit.

Let’s discuss how you can start writing on Medium the right way to achieve the best results fast and maximize your Medium earnings.

Creating and Optimizing Your Medium Profile

First things first: let’s get you set up on Medium. Creating your Medium account is as easy as pie. Just head over to Medium.com, click “Sign up,” and follow the prompts.

You can sign up with your Google account, Facebook, or good old email.

But here’s the thing: your Medium profile is like your writer’s business card. It’s the first thing people see when they click on your name, so you want to make it shine.

But if you have already joined Medium, you can use these tips to improve your profile.

So, here are some tips for new writers:

1. Choose a great profile picture. A clear, friendly headshot works wonders.

2. Write a catchy bio. Tell people who you are and what you write about in a way that makes them want to read more.

3. Add links to your other social media or websites. This helps readers connect with you outside of Medium too.

Joining Medium’s Partner Program: Step-by-Step Guide

Okay, you’ve got your profile set up. Now it’s time for the exciting part: joining Medium’s Partner Program! Here’s how to do it:

1. Log into your Medium account

2. Click on your profile picture in the top-right corner

3. Select “Settings” from the dropdown menu

4. Click on “Partner Program” in the left sidebar

5. Read through the terms and conditions (I know, I know, but it’s important!)

6. If you agree, click “Join the Partner Program”

And just like that, you’re in! Now you can start earning money from your Medium stories.

Writing Your First Story: Best Practices and Tips

If you have never published stories on Medium before, here comes the fun part: writing your first story! But before you start typing away.

Here are some tips to make your first Medium story a hit:

1. Choose a topic you’re passionate about. Your enthusiasm will shine through in your writing (This is what top writers and Medium authors do to get so much views)

2. Write a killer headline. It’s the first thing readers see, so make it count!

3. Use subheadings to break up your text. It makes your story easier to read.

4. Include images or videos to make your story more engaging.

5. End with a strong conclusion and a call to action. Ask readers to clap, comment, or follow you if they enjoyed your story.

But, for new writers, your first story doesn’t have to be perfect. The most important thing is to start writing! Quantity equals quality content.

So the more you write articles on Medium, the better you get at writing on Medium.

Understanding Medium’s Rules and Guidelines

Last but not least, let’s talk about Medium’s rules. They’re pretty straightforward, but it’s important to follow them if you want to find success on the platform. Here are the big ones:

1. No plagiarism. All your content should be original.

2. No hate speech or harassment.

3. No spam or self-promotion disguised as articles.

4. Be honest about sponsored content.

Stick to these rules, and you’ll be golden.

Crafting Content That Earns

Now, let’s move on to the good stuff: crafting content that earns!

When it comes to new writers writing on Medium, You need to understand that they’re paying members meaningful income if you understand everything we’re going to be discussing here.

Most writers fail to understand what type of content actually makes money on Medium. So, Let’s break it down.

Identifying Popular Topics and Niches on Medium

Do you want to know a secret? Not all topics are created equal on Medium. Some subjects just tend to perform better than others.

But don’t worry, I’ve got the inside scoop for you!

Popular topics on Medium often include:

1. Personal development and self-improvement

2. Technology and startups

3. Writing and creativity

4. Health and wellness

5. Politics and social issues

But here’s the thing: don’t just jump on a popular topic if you don’t care about it.

The best content comes from writing about what you’re passionate about. Find the sweet spot between what’s popular and what you love, and you’ll find success on Medium.

Writing Compelling Headlines and Introductions

You know what they say: you never get a second chance to make a first impression. On Medium, your headline and introduction are that first impression. Here’s how to make them count:

For headlines:

• Use numbers (like “7 Ways to…” or “5 Secrets of…”)

• Ask a question that piques your curiosity

• Make a bold statement

• Use power words like “ultimate,” “essential,” or “proven”

For introductions:

• Start with a surprising fact or statistic

• Tell a short, relatable story

• Paint a vivid picture

• Ask a thought-provoking question

As you can see, Medium members read stories that have some personality in them, so tell your story the best way you can. This is a no-brainer.

The way successful creators on Medium do this is, they try to make the reader think, “I’ve got to read this!”

Structuring Your Articles for Maximum Engagement

Now, let’s talk about the meat of your article. How you structure your content can make a big difference in how much people engage with it.

Here are some tips:

1. Use short paragraphs. Big blocks of text are scary on a screen.

2. Include subheadings to break up your content.

3. Use bullet points or numbered lists for easy scanning.

4. Include relevant images or videos to break up the text.

5. End each section with a hook that makes the reader want to continue.

And here’s a pro tip: try to structure your article like a story. Have a beginning that hooks the reader, a middle that delivers value, and an end that leaves them satisfied (and maybe even wanting more).

Incorporating Images and Other Visuals

They say a picture is worth a thousand words, and on Medium, that’s definitely true. Adding visual elements to your stories can really boost engagement. Here’s how to do it right:

1. Use high-quality, relevant images. No blurry pics or cheesy stock photos!

2. Create custom graphics or infographics to illustrate your points.

3. Embed tweets or social media posts to add social proof or extra context.

4. Use GIFs sparingly to add humor or emphasize a point.

5. Consider adding videos if they truly add value to your content.

Just remember: every image or visual element should serve a purpose. Don’t add them just for the sake of it!

Utilizing Medium’s Formatting Tools Effectively

Medium writers can use its cool formatting tools to make your stories look great. Here’s how to use them:

1. Use bold text to emphasize important points.

2. Use italics for quotes or to add a bit of flair to certain phrases.

3. Use block quotes for longer quotes or to highlight key takeaways.

4. Use dividers (—) to separate different sections of your story.

5. Use code blocks for, well, code (if you’re writing about tech stuff).

Play around with these tools, but remember: less is often more. You want your formatting to enhance your content, not distract from it.

Maximizing Visibility and Readership

So how do you make sure that more Medium members are engaging with your published stories? Let’s talk about ways Medium writers can increase their visibility.

Leveraging Medium Publications for Wider Reach

Alright, let’s talk about one of the best-kept secrets for boosting your visibility on the Medium platform: publications. These are like magazines within Medium, each with its own following and specific focus.

Getting your stories into popular publications can skyrocket your readership. Here’s how to do it:

1. Find publications that match your writing style and topics.

2. Read their submission guidelines carefully.

3. Submit your best work—make sure it’s polished and fits their requirements.

4. Don’t get discouraged if you’re rejected. Keep trying!

Some big publications to aim for include The Startup, Better Humans, and The Writing Cooperative. But don’t overlook smaller, niche publications either. They can be great for building a dedicated following.

Tagging Strategies to Increase Discoverability

Tags are like secret weapons for getting your stories found. When you publish a story, Medium lets you add up to five tags. Use them wisely!

Here’s how:

1. Use a mix of broad and specific tags.

2. Include at least one very popular tag (like “Life,” “Writing,” or “Technology”).

3. Use Medium’s tag suggestions—they know what works!

4. Be accurate. Don’t use tags that aren’t truly relevant to your story.

5. Consider using one unique or branded tag that’s specific to you.

On Medium platform, good tagging can help your stories show up in readers’ feeds and search results. It’s worth taking the time to get it right!

Building a Following on Medium: Tips and Tricks

Building a following on Medium is like making friends at a new school. It takes time, effort, and a bit of strategy. Before we dive in, I want you to write this down. You can’t aim to make money on Medium partner program and grow your following at the same time.

This is because when you publish members-only stories, people without a Medium membership can’t read or engage with your stories and this can impact your growth.

For new writers, It’s best to focus on growing your audience and authority on the platform and you can still make money on Medium using other methods we’re going talk about later in this post.

So, here are some tips to help you grow your audience:

1. Publish regularly. Consistency is key!

2. Engage with other writers. Comment on their stories, and clap for content you enjoy.

3. Respond to comments on your own stories. Readers love interacting with writers!

4. Share your stories on social media to bring in readers from other platforms.

5. Write in a distinctive voice. Let your personality shine through!

6. Optimizing your Medium stories to rank in the search engines to attract new audiences to the platform.

Cross-Promoting Your Medium Stories on Other Platforms

Don’t just rely on Medium to promote your blog posts or stories. Use other platforms to drive traffic to your Medium content. Here’s how:

1. Share your stories on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

2. Use Instagram to share quotes or key points from your stories.

3. Talk about your Medium stories on your personal blog or website.

4. Mention your latest stories in your email newsletter (if you have one).

5. Consider republishing your stories on other platforms (like LinkedIn) after they’ve been on Medium for a while.

Just remember to always link back to your original Medium story. The more places your content appears, the more chances people have to discover you!

How to Make Money Blogging on Medium: Other Monetization Strategies

So, what are other ways to make money on Medium without the partner program?

Let’s discuss the best methods successful creators on the platform earn money writing on Medium. You might know some of them but I’m going to show you how to do it more effectively.

Using Medium as a Portfolio to Attract Freelance Work

Did you know your Medium profile can serve as a resume? It’s true! Many writers use their Medium stories to show off their skills and land freelance gigs.

Here’s how you can do it too:

1. Write about topics in your field of expertise.

2. Showcase different writing styles (articles, how-tos, opinion pieces).

3. Include a call-to-action in your bio, inviting potential clients to contact you.

4. Share your best-performing stories on LinkedIn or your professional website.

Every story you publish is a sample of your work. Make each one count!

Promoting Your Own Products or Services

Got a book? A course? Coaching services? Medium can be a great place to promote them! But here’s the trick: don’t be salesy. Instead:

1. Write valuable content related to your product or service.

2. Mention your offering naturally within your stories, where it makes sense.

3. Include a subtle plug in your bio.

4. Create a free lead magnet (like an ebook) to build your email list.

The key is to give, give, give… and then ask. Provide tons of value, and readers will naturally want to check out what else you offer.

Affiliate Marketing Opportunities on Medium

Do you want to know another way to make money on Medium? Affiliate marketing! This is when you promote other people’s products and get a commission when someone buys through your link.

Here’s how to do it right:

1. Only promote products you truly believe in and have used yourself.

2. Disclose that you’re using affiliate links (it’s the law, and it builds trust).

3. Write honest, helpful reviews or “how-to” articles that naturally incorporate the product.

4. Don’t go overboard—too many affiliate links can turn readers off. ( Medium might suspend your account if you add too many affiliate links)

5. Or you can build your email list using a lead magnet and promote your affiliate products to them later.

Medium has rules about affiliate links, so make sure you read and follow them to avoid getting suspended or banned.

Sponsored Content: Dos and Don’ts

As you grow your following, you might get opportunities to write sponsored content. This is when a company pays you to write about their product or service. It can be a great way to earn extra cash, but there are some important dos and don’ts:

Do:

• Clearly disclose that it’s sponsored content

• Only work with brands that align with your values

• Maintain your authentic voice

Don’t:

• Accept sponsorships for products you wouldn’t use yourself

• Let the sponsorship compromise your honest opinion

• Overdo it—keep sponsored content to a minimum

You need to remember this when promoting any product, your readers’ trust is your most valuable asset. Don’t risk losing it for a quick buck!

Analyzing Your Performance

Now, let’s talk about ways to check how your Medium stories are performing and what metrics you need to look out for.

Understanding Medium’s Stats and Earnings Dashboard

Alright, number nerds (and everyone else), let’s talk stats! Medium gives you a pretty cool dashboard to track how your stories are doing.

Here’s what you need to know:

1. Views: How many times your story was viewed

2. Reads: How many people read your story all the way through

3. Read ratio: The percentage of viewers who read your whole story

4. Fan ratio: The percentage of readers who clapped for your story

5. Earnings: How much money you’ve made.

Don’t get too hung up on any one metric. They all work together to give you a picture of how you’re doing.

Key Metrics to Track for Growth and Income

Now, which numbers should you really pay attention to? Here are the key metrics:

1. Earnings per view: This tells you how much you’re making per pair of eyeballs on your story.

2. Follower growth: Are you gaining new followers over time?

3. Curation rate: How often are your stories being curated by Medium editors?

4. Comment engagement: Are people leaving thoughtful comments on your stories?

These metrics can help you understand what’s working and what’s not, so you can adjust your strategy accordingly.

Setting Realistic Income Goals as a Medium Writer

It’s great to have Income goals, but they need to be realistic. Here’s how to set income goals that won’t leave you feeling bummed:

1. Start small. Aim for your first $100 month, then your first $500 month, and so on.

2. Remember that income on Medium can be unpredictable. Don’t quit your day job just yet!

3. Focus on consistent growth rather than overnight success.

4. Consider your time investment. If you’re spending 20 hours a week writing, factor that into your income goals.

Advanced Techniques for Boosting Earnings

Creating Series and Serialized Content

Do you want to keep readers coming back for more? Try creating a series! This is when you write multiple connected stories on the same topic.

Here’s why it’s great:

1. It keeps readers engaged over time.

2. It can help you build a loyal following.

3. It gives you a chance to dive deep into a topic.

4. Medium keeps promoting the recent series to members who read and engaged with the past one.

To create a successful series:

1. Choose a broad topic with lots of subtopics.

2. Plan out your series in advance.

3. End each part with a teaser for the next one.

4. Publish consistently—maybe once a week.

Series can be a great way to boost your Medium earnings over time.

Experimenting with Different Content Formats

Don’t get stuck in a rut! Try out different types of content to see what resonates with your audience. Here are some formats to consider:

1. How-to guides

2. Personal essays and stories ( best format to boost engagements)

3. Listicles (like this article!)

4. Opinion pieces

5. Interviews with experts in your field

When you have various content formats, it makes things fresh. Mixing things up can help you attract more readers and make more money writing on Medium.

Collaborating with Other Medium Writers

Two heads are better than one, right? Collaborating with other writers can be a great way to expand your reach and create amazing content. Here’s how to do it:

1. Find writers in your niche or complementary niches.

2. Propose a collaboration—maybe a joint article or a series where you each write a part.

3. Promote collaboration to both of your audiences.

4. Share the earnings (Medium makes this easy with their collaboration feature).

Collaborations can help you tap into new audiences and learn from other writers. It’s a win-win!

FAQs

My Final Thoughts

We have gone through a lot in this guide, from understanding how to make money blogging on Medium to advanced techniques for boosting your earnings, we’ve explored it all (Bookmark this guide to refer to it as you go through this journey).

But here’s the thing: all this knowledge is just the beginning.

The real magic happens when you start putting these tips into action. Success on Medium doesn’t happen overnight. It takes time, effort, and a whole lot of writing.

But if you stick with it, the rewards can be incredible. Just like we said in the beginning you can make $100 or thousands of dollars per month on Medium.

Not only can you earn money doing something you love, but you also get to share your ideas with the world, connect with like-minded people, and grow as a writer. And let’s be honest, that’s pretty amazing.

So, tell me, have you already started your Medium journey? Or are you getting ready to start writing? Let me know in the comments below.