When I first started writing on Medium, I had no clue what I was doing. I was all over the place — one day writing about self-help, the next about technology, and then throwing in a random personal story for good measure. Spoiler alert: none of it worked.
But over time, I realized something crucial: the niche you choose can make or break your journey as a writer on Medium. And no, it’s not just about picking a “popular” topic. It’s about finding the sweet spot where your passion meets what people actually want to read.
If you’re a new writer, here’s what I learned the hard way about choosing the best niche.
1. Write What You Know (But Add Value)
One of the biggest mistakes new writers make is trying to write about something they don’t fully understand. People on Medium aren’t looking for generic content — they want depth, insight, and perspective.
Start with what you know, but always ask yourself: “What can I teach or share that others will find useful?” For example:
- If you’re great at productivity hacks, write about how you stay focused.
- If you’ve been through a unique life experience, share what you learned.
Remember, your niche doesn’t have to be groundbreaking — it just needs to be real.
2. Pick a Niche That Solves Problems
Medium readers love content that makes their lives easier. Think about niches that answer questions or provide solutions. Popular problem-solving niches include:
- Self-Improvement: How to build habits, overcome procrastination, or stay motivated.
- Career Advice: How to land a job, switch careers, or navigate workplace challenges.
- Money: Tips on saving, investing, or managing personal finances.
People are always searching for answers, and if your writing provides them, they’ll keep coming back.
3. Leverage Your Personal Story
When I started sharing personal experiences, I noticed something surprising: those pieces resonated the most. Why? Because people crave authenticity.
Your story can be your niche. Whether it’s about overcoming adversity, a unique hobby, or navigating relationships, there’s an audience out there for it. Just remember to connect your story to something your readers can take away.
4. Trendy Niches Can Work (But Be Careful)
Topics like AI, remote work, and the creator economy are hot right now. And yes, jumping on trends can bring in readers.
But here’s the catch: trendy topics attract a lot of competition. If you’re going to write about a popular niche, make sure your take is fresh and original. Don’t just repeat what everyone else is saying — bring your own perspective.
5. Experiment, Then Narrow Down
When you’re just starting, it’s okay to write across a few different niches. Think of it as testing the waters. Track which articles get the most engagement, and pay attention to what you enjoy writing the most.
Over time, you’ll find your niche organically. For me, it took a few months of trial and error before I realized I loved writing about personal growth and practical advice.
6. Focus on Evergreen Topics
Evergreen content is the kind of writing that stays relevant for years. These pieces might not go viral right away, but they’ll keep bringing in readers over time.
Some examples:
- “How to Overcome Imposter Syndrome”
- “The Best Books to Read for Personal Growth”
- “How to Start Journaling for Mental Clarity”
Evergreen niches are a long-term investment in your growth as a writer.
7. Start Where You’re Comfortable
As a new writer, don’t overthink it. Your first few articles don’t need to be perfect. The goal is to build confidence, find your voice, and get comfortable with hitting “publish.”
Your niche will evolve as you do, so don’t feel pressured to lock it in right away.
My Final Advice
If I could go back to my early days on Medium, I’d tell myself this: Pick a niche you genuinely care about. Passion shows in your writing, and readers can tell when you’re faking it.
Write what excites you, what you’ve lived, or what you wish someone had told you sooner. That’s your niche. And once you find it, the rest will follow.
So, what’s stopping you? Start writing. Your niche is waiting.