So, you want to make money on Medium. Maybe you’ve heard stories of writers earning thousands or seen the hype online about the Medium Partner Program. And now you’re here, ready to earn fast, right? Let me tell you something honestly, Medium is not that money-making machine that you are expecting.
If you’re here with the dream of overnight success, let me tell you some honest facts.
Why Medium Isn’t a “Get-Rich-Quick” Platform
When I first joined Medium, I thought I could pump out a few stories, rack up views, and watch the dollars roll in. The reality? It’s not quite like that. Here’s why:
- Medium Pays for Reads, Not Views
Medium only pays you for qualified reads — views that come from paying Medium members. Even if you’re getting hundreds or thousands of views, they won’t count toward earnings unless they’re from subscribers. So if most of your traffic comes from outside Medium, like Google, those views are good for exposure but won’t earn you a cent.
- Short-Term Content Rarely Succeeds
Medium rewards content that engages and retains readers. Clickbait or rushed content doesn’t usually perform well in the long run. Sure, it might get views, but Medium’s algorithm favours stories that readers actually finish and engage with. Quality takes time, and that’s part of why quick-money seekers can get frustrated fast.
Also Read: How to Enroll for Medium Partner Program from Pakistan
How to Actually Start Earning on Medium
Well, since I’ve been there myself, here’s what I’d suggest if you’re serious about trying to make money here. It may not be a fast path, but it can pay off if you’re consistent and strategic.
- Pick Topics That Resonate with Medium’s Audience
Medium readers love personal growth, productivity, entrepreneurship, and storytelling. Take time to understand what works on this platform. You might know a lot about a niche topic, but if it’s not relevant to the typical Medium audience, it might struggle to gain traction.
- Use the “Reporter” Approach
A strategy that works well on Medium is the “reporter” approach. Learn something new, solve a problem, or share insights, and then report back to readers. This positions you as an expert on the topic, which not only makes your article more valuable but can also lead to more followers and loyal readers over time.
- Experiment and Learn from Your Analytics
After you’ve published a few articles, check your stats. Look at which articles performed well and ask why. Was it the topic? The style? The headline? Medium’s analytics help you see what readers are drawn to, which can guide you as you continue to improve and test new ideas.
Also Read: How to Withdraw Money from Stripe in Pakistan
The Reality of Medium Earnings: Don’t Count on Overnight Success
Even with all the tips in the world, Medium is not a shortcut to wealth. To make real money on this platform, you have to:
- Be consistent — Think of Medium as a marathon, not a sprint.
- Adapt and learn — Don’t get discouraged if your first few posts don’t make much. Adjust your approach based on the data you’re seeing.
- Focus on creating value — Content that solves real problems or offers unique insights will always do better over time.
Is It Worth Sticking Around?
If you’re looking for quick money, Medium might not be for you. But if you’re interested in building a presence, honing your skills, and earning as you go, it’s absolutely worth it.
Medium is a place to build a brand, make connections, and grow as a writer. The income can come, but it’s rarely immediate.
Bottom line: If you’re serious about making money on Medium, shift your focus from quick cash to long-term value.
