Member-only story
Friends of Medium
Worthwhile?
Last year I became of “Friend of Medium.” It sounded good. If I read and like other writer’s articles, they will earn more.
Then many reported that they did not seem to actually earn more from a FOM. At least it wasn’t clear.
I also noticed that I attracted more followers, perhaps because of that FOM status? More followers did not translate into more readers, however. Did more people follow me, hoping that they would earn more from my views?
Medium is a hobby for me, not a source of income. I have always assumed that to be the case for most writers here. According to my online research on the average income from Medium, 92% of writers here earn less than $100/month.
Are there any high earners here?
Even if all my readers were FOM, writing for Medium would still be just a hobby for me. The most I have ever made from an article is a bit over $120, not enough to pay many bills.
That’s o.k. with me. I have other sources of income. What I miss more now is community. When I started writing here, I got to know quite a few writers. I enjoyed their stories; and they, in turn, liked mine. None of them are still here. I wrote for several publications. Most of them have folded.
I don’t have the energy or inclination to establish new relationships here, to find other like-minded writers who like poetry, who discuss politics and other topics. In addition, Medium makes it difficult for members to interact directly.
What does Friend of Medium mean now? What does it support? Who really benefits?
I am currently rethinking last year’s decision. When it is time to renew my membership, I may go back to just a regular membership again.
