Support Your Fellow Writers: The Importance of Community on Medium
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Chapter 1: Embracing the Writer's Community
As a newcomer to this platform, I've only shared a handful of stories—this being my tenth. Given my limited output, I’ve seen only modest engagement in terms of views, claps, and comments. However, something remarkable happened with my eighth article. I included a photograph from Unsplash, and in appreciation, the photographer shared my piece across several lists. This photographer, Francisco Iglesias, boasts nearly 3,000 followers, and as a result, my work reached an audience of thousands in addition to my 54 followers. A big thanks to Francisco!
This experience underscores how a little assistance from fellow creators on Medium can significantly broaden our reach. So, what actionable steps can we take to support one another? The answer is straightforward: read, respond, and share.
When we uplift each other, everyone benefits—whether those benefits are intrinsic or extrinsic. According to Medium’s Partner Program announcement from August 1, 2023, there are four elements that contribute to earnings in the new system:
- Engagement Points: Calculated based on read/listening time, the number of claps, highlights, replies to your story, and the number of new followers gained after someone reads your piece.
- Follower Bonus: A multiplier added to engagement points when a reader follows you or the publication associated with your story.
- Boost Bonus: An additional multiplier on engagement points when your story is Boosted.
- Read Ratio Adjustment: The percentage of readers who engage with your story for 30 seconds or more on a given day can adjust the total points earned either upward or downward.
Beyond financial motivations, it's essential to cherish our time here. Read what resonates with you, and if it strikes a chord, leave a thoughtful comment. If we focus solely on financial rewards, we risk losing our authenticity. It’s crucial to remember that we share a common love for both reading and writing, just like many other creators on Medium. Keeping this joy at the forefront encourages us to engage in reading, writing, and connection in a more genuine way. Always nurture your sense of wonder. Embrace your love for reading, writing, and helping others thrive.
Video: Writing Support from the Royal Literary Fund Writing Fellow
This video discusses how writers can support each other through various resources and guidance available to them.
Chapter 2: The Power of Connections
In 2024, I have published 37 stories and have 13 more in the works, which means my writing journey on Medium will continue for the foreseeable future. I’ve also launched a publication titled "Peace, Love & Crappiness." Feel free to follow it here.
Additionally, I’ve contributed to Francisco’s publication, "Inside The Mind of a Writer." Francisco’s journey on Medium has been impressive; he has now more than doubled his followers, growing from 3,000 to 6,700.
Congratulations to Francisco for his success, and thank you for your unwavering support!
Video: The Benefits of Surrounding Yourself with Fellow Writers
This video highlights the advantages of engaging with other writers and fostering a supportive community to enhance your writing journey.