Medium Partner Program Review

Introduction.

If you’re a writer looking for ways to make money online, chances are you’ve heard about Medium’s Partner Program. It’s often talked about as a simple way to earn from your writing while reaching a wide audience.

But is it worth your time? And more importantly, can it pay the bills or support your goals as a writer? Let’s take a closer look at what the program offers, how it works, and whether it’s the right fit for you.

What Is the Medium Partner Program?

The Medium Partner Program allows writers to earn money based on how much time Medium members spend reading their stories. Medium pays you through a portion of the subscription fees collected from its members.

It’s a performance-based system, so the more engaging and widely read your articles are, the higher your earnings.

How Does It Work?

Here’s the short version:

Sign up for the program. You’ll need a Stripe account to receive payments.
Write and publish articles. They can be about any topic, as long as they follow Medium’s rules.
Earn based on reading time. Medium calculates your earnings by tracking how long paying members spend reading your work.

That’s it—simple on the surface. But the real question is: how much can you earn, and is it worth the effort?

How Much Can You Earn on Medium?

Earnings vary widely among writers, so there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Some make a few cents per month, while others earn hundreds or even thousands of dollars. According to Medium, in September 2023:

The top 50 writers earned at least $4,798.
The median earnings of active writers (at least one story published) was $19.91.

These numbers show that while a few top performers are earning big, most writers aren’t making a significant income. Success depends on your ability to write articles that attract readers and keep them engaged.

Pros of the Medium Partner Program

Here are a few reasons why the program appeals to many writers:

1. Ease of Use

You don’t need to set up a website, deal with ads, or worry about complicated SEO strategies. Medium’s platform is ready to use, and you can focus solely on writing.

2. Built-In Audience

Medium has millions of readers, so you’re not starting from scratch. If your writing resonates, it can be discovered by readers already on the platform.

3. Creative Freedom

You can write about what interests you, from personal essays to in-depth how-tos. There’s no strict niche requirement.

4. Low Barrier to Entry

It’s free to join the program, and there are no quotas or minimums for publishing.

Cons of the Medium Partner Program

But it’s not all smooth sailing. Here’s what you should keep in mind:

1. Unpredictable Income

Earnings can be inconsistent. Even if you write regularly, there’s no guarantee you’ll earn a steady amount.

2. Competition

Medium is home to thousands of writers, which means standing out can be tough. Success often depends on mastering storytelling, understanding your audience, and staying consistent.

3. Limited Control

You’re subject to Medium’s algorithms and rules. If Medium changes its policies or algorithms, your income could be affected.

4. Time-Consuming

Earning significant income requires consistent effort. You need to write quality content regularly and promote your work.

Tips for Success in the Medium Partner Program

If you decide to join, here’s how to make the most of it:

Focus on Quality
Write well-researched, engaging stories that provide value to readers. The more time people spend reading, the more you earn.
Understand Your Audience
Pay attention to what topics perform well and tailor your writing to your readers’ interests.
Be Consistent
Publishing regularly increases your chances of building a following and earning more.
Promote Your Work
Share your stories on social media, in newsletters, or with relevant online communities to increase visibility.
Engage with Other Writers
Clapping for, commenting on, and sharing others’ stories can help you build relationships and gain exposure.

FAQs

1. Do I need to pay to join the Medium Partner Program?

No, it’s free to join. However, you might consider becoming a paying Medium member to explore the platform’s features fully.

2. How do I get paid?

Medium pays monthly via Stripe. You’ll need a Stripe account to receive payments.

3. Can I make a full-time income?

Some writers do, but they’re the exception rather than the rule. Most earn supplementary income rather than a primary paycheck.

4. Do I keep ownership of my work?

Yes, you retain full rights to your content and can republish it elsewhere if you choose.

5. What kind of stories perform best?

Personal stories, how-to guides, and opinion pieces often resonate with readers, but performance varies by audience and topic.

So, Is It Worth It?

The Medium Partner Program offers a great opportunity for writers who want to experiment with online publishing and earn extra cash. It’s easy to join and offers creative freedom, but it’s not a guaranteed income source.

This might not be the solution if you’re looking for a low-effort way to make big bucks. However, if you enjoy writing and want to reach a wider audience, it’s worth exploring.

What do you think? Would you try the Medium Partner Program, or do you prefer other platforms for sharing your work?