Chapter 1: The Importance of Mentorship

When it comes to writing, especially on platforms like Medium, a common refrain among readers is their frustration with the abundance of articles about writing itself. It's not uncommon to encounter pieces that discuss how to increase your visibility or craft compelling headlines. Some even delve into strategies for boosting earnings on Medium.

However, it's crucial to approach these resources with caution. The authors of many of these articles may not be the most qualified individuals to provide guidance, particularly to novice writers seeking to find their footing.

When I first became a part of the Medium community two years ago, I voraciously consumed articles that promised to help me as a beginner. It took considerable time to digest all the information I was eager to learn.

As I explored, I noted a surprising trend: many writers were focused on discussing how to write on Medium, even though they were relatively new and not particularly successful themselves. Initially, this seemed illogical, but then I realized that writing about writing can be commercially appealing.

Many newcomers to Medium aspire to make a full-time income, a goal that is challenging to achieve quickly. The reality is that some writers lack the persistence needed to cultivate effective strategies and tips.

If someone is earning merely a few cents daily, should you really heed their advice? Instead, seek out those who generate substantial earnings per article.

The allure of writing about writing can be strong, especially for those who find themselves disheartened by their modest earnings. Time passes, and for some, it feels as though their situation isn’t improving. Months can slip by with many still bringing in only enough to cover a casual meal.

If your aspiration isn't financial gain, that's perfectly fine. Many writers find satisfaction simply in the act of writing and sharing their work regularly. If that resonates with you, continue on your path.

However, for those who desire more, it's natural to feel undervalued and believe their writing merits greater compensation. Some are indeed justified in their feelings, but many are receiving exactly what the Medium marketplace allows.

It's all too easy for anyone to write an article about maximizing earnings as a Medium contributor. They can share numerous tips and present their experiences as straightforward successes. Yet, it's essential to read critically.

Whenever I come across a "how-to" guide related to writing on Medium, I scrutinize a few key factors. Firstly, I examine the author's follower count. If it's below a certain threshold, particularly in the double digits, I become skeptical.

The quality of the writing itself is also a significant indicator. If the article features poor grammar, misspellings, or lacks proper formatting with clear titles and subtitles, I question its credibility.

Next, I review the author's other works. Do they exclusively write about writing on Medium, or do they showcase a diverse range of topics? Their publishing frequency is also telling; if they only post once a month or less, it raises doubts about their success on the platform.

The presentation of their articles is critical as well. Proper formatting can significantly affect engagement, making it more likely that readers will not only click on the article but also read it through to the end. Striking visuals are vital for breaking up lengthy sections of text and maintaining reader interest.

Personally, I aim to incorporate visually appealing images every five to six short paragraphs. Speaking of paragraphs, I emphasize brevity. Long paragraphs that take up too much space can be off-putting. I strive for concise blocks of three to four sentences to enhance readability on various devices.

Finally, I check how long the writer has been active on Medium, which can be found on their profile. This information, along with follower counts, can help gauge their qualifications for offering writing advice.

While it’s not to say that someone with fewer followers or less experience can’t provide valuable insights, it’s wise to be discerning. Generally, it's best to exercise caution when taking advice from others.

I’ve always taught my children to critically evaluate what people say, especially if they don't know them well. Anyone can present information convincingly, but until someone has proven their expertise in a particular area, it's prudent to remain skeptical.

In writing, just as in life, it's advisable not to take guidance from those who are struggling more than you. If they are at your level or further along in their writing journey, their advice is more likely to be valuable.

Be wary, though, if they expect payment for their insights—this raises additional concerns. Stay alert and don’t be easily swayed.

© 2024 Jason Provencio. All rights reserved. If you found this article helpful, tips are always appreciated. Thank you for reading!

Chapter 2: Insights from Successful Freelancers

For those aspiring to thrive as freelance writers, understanding the nuances of the industry can be vital. Many writers seek strategies to generate income quickly, and there are effective methods to achieve this.

The second video, "SECRETS Freelance Writers Use to Make MONEY Back FAST - Here's How You Can, Too," offers valuable insights on how to navigate the freelance writing landscape successfully.