How to Avoid Getting Boosted on Medium: A Guide for Writers
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Understanding Medium's Boost
If you haven't noticed, Medium's influential Boost feature is currently making waves. CEO Tony Stubblebine disclosed that some writers are achieving up to 100,000 views through this Boost.
“So how significant is the Boost?” he asks. “We’ve observed Boosts ranging from 500 views to 100,000 views. Our objective is for every Boosted story to gain a minimum of 500 additional views within the first week.”
An Impressive Example
One remarkable instance comes from writer Jan M. Flynn, who generously shared her Boosted story with me via email:
Photo credit: Jan M. Flynn, Boosted story featured in Crow’s Feet on Medium.
Her story received 19,000 views and generated over $700. Isn’t that impressive?
The Power of the Boost
Take a look at her success:
Photo credit: Jan M. Flynn, Boosted story from Crow’s Feet on Medium.
Jan garnered 10,000 claps and 200 comments—finally, the recognition she rightfully earned.
Many talented new writers on Medium aren’t receiving the visibility they deserve. If you’re one of them and are curious about what it takes to avoid writing a Boost-eligible story, then this guide is for you!
Key Points on Avoiding Boosts
Medium has outlined a comprehensive list of criteria that disqualify stories from being Boosted:
- Violation of Medium’s Guidelines:
- Avoid creating content that breaches Medium’s rules.
- Clickbait Strategies:
- Steer clear of misleading headlines or images designed solely to attract clicks.
- Forbidden Story Types:
- Sponsored content or marketing pieces aimed solely at driving traffic or signups.
- Crypto airdrops.
- Press releases.
- Non-English submissions, as Medium currently only reviews English stories.
- Explicit erotica—use alternative tags and focus on softer narratives.
- Inflammatory business reviews.
- Posts about Medium itself, referred to as “meta posts,” won’t be distributed.
- Copyrighted images—ensure you have rights and cite your sources.
- Call-out posts or any content that poses a danger, is illegal, or harmful.
- AI-Generated Content:
- Many new writers utilize AI tools for assistance. However, according to Medium’s VP of content, Scott Lamb, stories created entirely by AI are not eligible for Boosts. It's essential to label any AI-assisted writing clearly. Stories believed to be solely AI-generated will not be distributed.
- Lack of Human Touch:
- AI lacks the personal touch that resonates with readers. While it’s fine to use tools like ChatGPT for assistance, your final product should reflect your own voice and insights. Ariel Meadow Stallings, Medium’s Director of Publication Relations, emphasizes that stories that connect with readers often showcase the author's humanity.
The Bottom Line
Now that you understand what to avoid to not get Boosted, consider how to enhance your visibility and engagement on Medium.
For further insights, check out my latest video featuring an interview with Ariel from Medium about the Boost:
P.S. Don’t miss out on the FREE Get Boosted on Medium Guide available here!