Essential Tips for New Medium Writers: What I Wish I Knew
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Understanding Kickers in Titles
There's nothing more frustrating than clicking on an enticing title only to be met with an article that lacks substance. Writers, it's time to stop fixating on word count and start expressing your thoughts. If your message is valuable, there’s no need for unnecessary fluff—just focus on what truly matters.
With that in mind, let's dive into essential tips I wish I had known when I began my journey on Medium.
One such tip is the use of "kickers." A kicker serves as a secondary title that adds context. For instance, "Why I Loved Your Dad" is an example where I effectively utilized a kicker, a technique I learned from Casey Botticello's insightful piece, "Medium Titles, Subtitles and Kickers."
Engaging with Tags
Most writers on Medium are aware of the importance of using five tags to categorize their articles and enhance visibility. Susie Pinon has written an excellent article that challenged my previous understanding of tags.
Additionally, you can tag other writers in your articles! To do this, simply type the "at sign" followed by the author’s name you want to mention.
Engaging with Your Audience
Take a cue from Nicole Dake, who engaged with my piece, "My Depression is Insufferable." She not only read and clapped for my article but also saved it in her "What I Read this Week" list.
Always seize the opportunity to connect with your audience, especially if you're looking to expand your following. By commenting on her list that featured my article, I increased my visibility among over 80 new writers.
Remember, engagement is crucial. I’ve discussed this in more detail here.
The Power of Clapping
When it comes to clapping, don’t limit yourself—go for 50 claps instead of just one! Acknowledge not only the initial comment but also engage with others in the comment threads.
Sharing About Yourself
It's vital to let your audience know who you are, how often you plan to share updates, and the topics you’ll cover. This information can be shared on your About Page and in your short bio, which can be a maximum of 160 characters.
Joining the New Writers Welcome Community
Consider becoming a part of the "New Writers Welcome" publication. Make sure to familiarize yourself with each publication's submission rules to ensure your work meets their expectations. Check out the "New Submission Rules" for guidance.
So, go ahead! Enjoy the writing process, and don’t hesitate to tag me in your next article. I would love to read it and offer feedback.
Chapter 2: Enhancing Your Medium Writing Experience
This video, "Tips for Writing on Medium to Earn More Money," provides valuable insights into optimizing your writing strategy on the platform.
The second video, "Improve Your Writing by Publishing on Medium (Tips for Non-Native English Writers)," offers practical advice for enhancing your writing skills.