Exploring Medium's New Tipping Feature and Monetization Challenges
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Chapter 1: Introduction to Medium's Tipping Feature
The eagerly anticipated tipping feature on Medium has finally arrived!
The anticipated tipping feature is finally available!
However, there seems to be a lingering question: why has it taken so long for Medium to implement this? Many users, including myself, have often noticed the inclusion of "Buy Me a Coffee" links in various stories on the platform. Despite ongoing efforts to enhance monetization through referral programs and establishing minimum payout thresholds, there remains a lack of effective tipping options. If so many writers are turning to "Buy Me a Coffee" for support, why not integrate a built-in tipping mechanism?
Medium is actively working on improving monetization opportunities, but the absence of a tipping feature is puzzling. In contrast, Vocal—a much smaller platform—has successfully introduced tipping as one of its most sought-after functionalities after years of user requests.
I genuinely appreciate using Medium, as it drives traffic to my stories and is user-friendly. However, the monetization landscape leaves much to be desired. In comparison, top creators on platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram enjoy vast fortunes from their content and sponsorships. Tim Denning, one of Medium's leading writers, reportedly earns around $25,000 each month by posting one to three times a day. While this is commendable, it's a fraction of what top YouTube earners like PewDiePie make—up to $2 million monthly—primarily through views. Additionally, Medium's policies often restrict third-party sponsorships, which can significantly boost revenue.
While I can't express too much discontent, as the platform is not obligated to provide anything, I have found value in referral programs. Many of my readers come from outside the platform, enabling me to steadily grow my referral network. Moreover, having an exportable email list has been beneficial for user retention and consistent growth. However, beyond these strategies, one remains at the mercy of Medium's algorithm.
Section 1.1: Advantages of Joining Medium
If you're new to Medium, you can enjoy unlimited access to a wealth of quality content. This not only enriches your reading experience but also supports me, as I receive a small portion of the membership fee at no additional cost to you!
Chapter 2: The Need for Enhanced Monetization
In the video titled "Is Medium Worth It in 2024? | Interview with Medium CEO Tony Stubblebine," viewers can gain insights into the platform's future direction and monetization strategies directly from its CEO.
Additionally, the video "I Discovered a New Way to Grow (And Make Money) On Medium.com" offers valuable tips and strategies for leveraging the platform effectively to boost earnings.