What Type of Platform Should You Write On? In the modern digital landscape, the question “What type of platform?” is arguably the most crucial decision a writer or creator can make. It’s no longer just about where to post words, but about choosing a platform that aligns with your specific goals, audience, and monetization strategy.
Whether you are looking to build a brand, publish long-form content, or gain instant readership, your choice of platform dictates your path to success. 1. The “Money” Platform (Substack, Ghost, WordPress)
If your primary goal is to monetize your work directly through paid subscriptions, newsletters, or digital products, you need a “money” platform.
Substack: Excellent for writers building a brand, offering a straightforward path to building direct subscriber relationships and offering paid newsletters.
Ghost: Ideal for writers who want ownership, offering modern publishing tools, though it may require technical knowledge to manage.
WordPress: The best choice for maximum control, flexibility, and a permanent archive/portfolio, often used by writers looking for a long-term home. 2. The “Discovery” Platform (Medium)
If you are looking to find an audience and build your voice without starting from scratch, a discovery platform is ideal.
Medium: A popular choice for non-fiction writers looking for instant access to an established readership. It is often used to gain traffic and then convert that audience into followers or newsletter subscribers on a personal site. 3. The “Niche/Emerging” Platform (Jotter)
Emerging platforms often cater to specific needs, such as combining short-form writing with long-form capabilities.
Jotter: A new platform that allows short-form posts (like Medium) but offers the unique benefit of easily sharing full-length novels or long-form content. 4. The “Social” Platform (YouTube, LinkedIn, Twitter/X)
These platforms serve as a “marketing” platform to build a brand and drive traffic back to your “money” platform. The Strategy: Using More Than One
Many successful writers don’t pick just one; they use a hybrid approach. A common strategy involves a “Money” platform (like Substack) paired with a “Discovery” platform (like Medium) to find new readers, and a “Social” platform (like YouTube) for visibility.
The best platform is the one that aligns with your goals. The key is to start building, and you can always migrate your content as your needs evolve. If you’re interested, I can:
Compare the specific monetization rates of Substack vs. Medium.
Detail the technical requirements for setting up a custom WordPress site.