
Medium has become a popular platform for writers to share their stories, ideas, and expertise. One of the best ways to gain visibility on Medium is by submitting your work to publications. Publications on Medium offer access to a larger audience, boost your credibility and increase engagement. However, to get your articles accepted by publications, you need to follow specific guidelines and strategies. In this article, we’ll cover the essential tips for successfully submitting to Medium publications, helping you improve your chances of getting published and reaching more readers.
Understanding Medium Publications and Their Importance
Before diving into submission strategies, it’s crucial to understand what Medium publications are and why they matter. Medium publications are essentially online magazines or collections of articles around specific themes or topics. These publications are managed by editors who curate content that aligns with their niche, ensuring quality and relevance for their readers.
Why Submit to Medium Publications?
- Wider Audience Reach: Submitting to a publication allows you to reach an already established audience, increasing your article’s visibility.
- Credibility and Trust: Being published in a reputable Medium publication can build your credibility as a writer, showcasing your expertise in a given field.
- Higher Engagement: Articles published in popular publications often receive more engagement, including claps, comments, and shares.
Examples of Popular Medium Publications:
- The Startup (business and entrepreneurship)
- Better Humans (self-improvement)
- P.S. I Love You (relationships)
- Forge (work and productivity)
How to Find the Right Publication for Your Article:
- Use Medium’s search bar to explore relevant publications based on your niche.
- Look at the publication’s guidelines and article themes to ensure your content fits their focus.
Researching the Right Publication for Your Article

Not every Medium publication will be the right fit for your article. One of the most important steps in submitting your work is researching which publication aligns with your content. Submitting to the wrong publication may lead to rejection, even if your article is well-written.
Steps to Identify the Right Publication:
- Explore Relevant Topics: Start by identifying the main topic of your article. Use Medium’s search function to find publications that focus on similar topics. For example, if you’re writing about personal development, search for terms like “self-improvement” or “personal growth.”
- Check Out the Publication’s Style: Each publication has its unique style and tone. Read a few articles published in the publication to understand the tone they prefer. Is it formal or conversational? Are the articles data-driven or more story-focused?
- Read Submission Guidelines: Most publications have specific submission guidelines. These may include the preferred word count, formatting instructions, or specific content requirements. Familiarize yourself with these guidelines to increase your chances of acceptance.
Key Questions to Ask When Researching:
- Does the publication accept new or emerging writers?
- How often does the publication post content?
- Does the content of the publication align with my article’s theme?
By thoroughly researching publications, you ensure that your article ends up in the right place, increasing the likelihood of it being accepted.
Writing for Medium Publications: Tailoring Your Content
When writing for a Medium publication, you must tailor your content to match the publication’s audience and style. Each publication on Medium has a unique voice and tone that appeals to its readers. Understanding this will help you craft a piece that resonates with both the editors and the audience.
Steps to Tailor Your Content:
- Understand the Publication’s Audience: Determine who the target audience is. Are they entrepreneurs, tech enthusiasts, or people interested in wellness? Your content should address the specific needs and interests of the publication’s readers.
- Match the Tone and Style: As mentioned earlier, each publication has a preferred tone and style. Some may favor a conversational tone, while others prefer a more formal or academic approach. Adapt your writing style to fit the publication’s preferences.
- Structure Your Article Properly: Medium publications often have formatting preferences. Some prefer short, snappy paragraphs with bullet points, while others may encourage more in-depth, analytical pieces. Pay attention to how articles are structured in the publication you’re submitting to.
Example: Tailoring for a Business Publication
- If you’re submitting to a business-focused publication like The Startup, your article should focus on practical tips or insights about entrepreneurship, leadership, or productivity. Use clear language, avoid jargon, and back your points with data or real-world examples.
Final Tip: Be Unique but Relevant
- While it’s essential to match the tone and style, don’t lose your unique voice. Editors appreciate originality. Provide a fresh perspective on topics that align with the publication’s focus.
Following Submission Guidelines: A Crucial Step
Each Medium publication has its submission process and guidelines. Following these guidelines is critical, as failing to do so can lead to an automatic rejection. Submission guidelines may include specific formatting requirements, word counts, or content preferences.
Why Submission Guidelines Matter:
- Ensures Professionalism: Following guidelines shows that you respect the publication’s standards and increases the likelihood of acceptance.
- Helps Editors Save Time: Editors often deal with a high volume of submissions. When you adhere to their guidelines, you make their job easier, which can improve your chances of getting published.
Common Submission Requirements:
- Article Formatting: Publications may have specific preferences for formatting, such as font style, paragraph length, and the use of subheadings or bullet points.
- Word Count: Some publications accept shorter articles (around 500–1000 words), while others prefer longer, in-depth pieces. Always check for word count limits.
- Linking: Many publications discourage or limit the use of external links. Make sure you understand their policy on linking to other websites or resources.
Tips for Following Submission Guidelines:
- Carefully Read the Submission Page: Most publications have a dedicated submission page where they outline all their requirements. Take the time to read this thoroughly.
- Stick to the Word Count: If a publication asks for articles between 800 and 1500 words, don’t submit a 3000-word piece. Adhering to the word count shows that you respect the publication’s preferences.
- Proper Formatting: Use Medium’s formatting tools to ensure your article looks polished. This includes using headings, subheadings, and bullet points where necessary.
Crafting a Compelling Pitch: Engaging the Editors
Writing a great article is only half the battle; you also need to convince the editors that your article is worth publishing. A well-crafted pitch can make a significant difference in getting your article accepted.
What to Include in Your Pitch:
- A Brief Introduction: Start by introducing yourself and mentioning why you’re interested in submitting to the publication.
- A Summary of Your Article: Provide a concise summary of your article, highlighting the key points and what makes it unique.
- Why It’s Relevant to the Publication: Explain why your article is a good fit for the publication’s audience. This shows that you’ve done your research.
Sample Pitch Template:
- Subject: Submission for [Publication Name] – [Article Title]
- Message: Hi [Editor’s Name], my name is [Your Name], and I’m a writer passionate about [topic]. I’ve written an article titled “[Article Title]” that I believe would be a great fit for [Publication Name]. The article covers [summary], which aligns with the themes your publication explores. I’d love to submit it for your consideration. Thank you for your time, and I look forward to hearing from you!
Why a Good Pitch Matters:
- Captures Editor’s Attention: A concise and well-written pitch helps you stand out among numerous submissions.
- Shows Professionalism: A clear and respectful tone in your pitch demonstrates your professionalism, making a positive impression on editors.
Editing and Proofreading: Ensuring Your Article is Polished
Submitting an article that is well-edited and free from errors is crucial to making a good impression on the publication’s editors. A polished article increases your chances of being accepted, as editors are more likely to reject poorly written or error-filled submissions.
Editing Tips for Medium Submissions:
- Check for Grammar and Spelling Errors: Even minor mistakes can hurt your chances. Use tools like Grammarly to catch errors, but also read through your article yourself to ensure everything flows well.
- Ensure Clarity and Conciseness: Avoid long-winded sentences and unnecessary jargon. Make sure your message is clear and easy to understand.
- Improve Readability: Break up long paragraphs into smaller chunks. Use bullet points and headings to make the article easier to skim.
Proofreading Steps:
- Read Aloud: Reading your article out loud can help you catch awkward phrasing or errors that you might have missed while reading silently.
- Ask for Feedback: If possible, ask a friend or fellow writer to review your article. They may notice mistakes or suggest improvements that you hadn’t considered.
- Take a Break: After writing your article, take a short break before proofreading. Returning with fresh eyes will help you spot errors more easily.
Engaging with the Publication and Editors
Building relationships with editors and the publication team is essential for long-term success on Medium. Engaging with the publication not only improves your chances of being published but also increases the likelihood of future collaborations.
Ways to Engage with Editors:
- Follow the Publication’s Social Media: Many Medium publications have social media profiles. Engage with their posts by liking, commenting, and sharing their content.
- Respond to Feedback: If an editor provides feedback on your article, take it seriously. Making revisions based on their suggestions shows that you’re open to improving your work.
- Be Professional in All Interactions: Whether you’re submitting a pitch, asking for clarification, or responding to feedback, always maintain a respectful and professional tone.
Benefits of Building Relationships with Editors:
- Increased Chances of Acceptance: Editors are more likely to accept submissions from writers they’ve worked with in the past or those who show genuine interest in their publication.
- Opportunities for Future Collaborations: Once you establish a positive relationship with an editor, they may reach out to you for future writing opportunities.
Final Steps: Submitting Your Article and What to Expect After Submission
Once you’ve followed all the previous steps, you’re ready to submit your article. The final submission process may vary slightly depending on the publication, but most will require you to either email the editor directly or submit through Medium’s submission system.
Steps for Submitting Your Article:
- Prepare Your Article for Submission: Make sure your article is formatted correctly, with the necessary links, images, and formatting. Double-check for any final edits.
- Submit Via Medium’s Submission System: If the publication accepts submissions directly through Medium, you’ll find a “Submit” button on the publication’s page. Follow the instructions to submit your article.
- Email Submissions: Some publications require you to email your article directly to the editor. If so, follow the instructions provided in the submission guidelines.
What Happens After Submission:
- Waiting for a Response: Most publications will provide a timeframe for how long it will take them to review your submission. This can range from a few days to a couple of weeks.
- Acceptance or Rejection: If your article is accepted, the publication will notify you and likely provide a publication date. If rejected, don’t be discouraged. Use any feedback provided to improve your next submission.
Conclusion: Mastering the Art of Submitting to Medium Publications
Submitting to Medium publications is a great way to expand your audience, gain credibility, and build your writing portfolio. By following the tips outlined in this article, you’ll improve your chances of getting your work published and making a lasting impression on editors.
Key Takeaways:
- Research and find the right publication for your content.
- Tailor your writing style to match the publication’s audience and tone.
- Always follow submission guidelines to ensure your article is accepted.
- Craft a compelling pitch to engage editors and make a strong impression.
- Edit and proofread your work to present a polished and professional article.
- Build relationships with editors to open doors for future opportunities.
By mastering the submission process, you’ll position yourself as a strong and professional writer on Medium, increasing your chances of success.