Let’s be real: starting out as a writer can feel like standing at the edge of a cliff, wondering if you’ve got the guts to jump. You’ve got the passion, the ideas, maybe even a half-finished manuscript or a folder full of blog post drafts. But where do you go from here? How do you get your work out there? How do you find your people—the ones who will read your words, cheer you on, and maybe even pay you for your craft?
The good news is, the internet is full of platforms where new writers can shine. The bad news? There are so many options that it can feel overwhelming. Do you start a blog? Post on social media? Submit to literary magazines? The choices are endless, and not all of them are created equal.
So, after years of trial and error (and plenty of “what am I even doing?” moments), I’ve narrowed it down to the three best platforms for new writers. These are the ones that are beginner-friendly, low-pressure, and packed with opportunities to grow. Think of this as your friendly guide to taking that first leap. Ready? Let’s dive in.
1. Medium (The Writer’s Playground)
If you’re new to writing and want a platform that feels like home, Medium is it. It’s like a cozy coffee shop where writers and readers hang out, share ideas, and support each other. Plus, it’s super easy to use—no tech skills required.
Why It’s Great for New Writers:
- Built-in Audience: Medium has millions of readers who are already there to discover new writers. You don’t have to build an audience from scratch.
- Monetization: If you join the Medium Partner Program, you can earn money based on how much time readers spend on your stories.
- Community: The comments and claps (Medium’s version of likes) make it easy to connect with readers and other writers.
How to Get Started:
- Sign up for a free account.
- Start writing! You can publish anything from personal essays to how-to guides.
- Use tags to help readers find your work (e.g., #Writing, #LifeLessons, #Creativity).
Example: I published my first essay on Medium about my struggles with imposter syndrome. Within a week, it had thousands of views and dozens of comments from people saying, “Me too.” It was the first time I felt like my writing mattered.
2. Substack (The Newsletter Revolution)
If you’ve ever dreamed of having your own newsletter, Substack is the place to start. It’s perfect for writers who want to build a loyal audience and have full control over their content.
Why It’s Great for New Writers:
- Ownership: You own your email list, which means you’re not at the mercy of an algorithm.
- Flexibility: You can write about anything—poetry, personal stories, industry insights, you name it.
- Monetization: Once you’ve built an audience, you can start charging for subscriptions.
How to Get Started:
- Sign up for a free Substack account.
- Choose a niche or theme for your newsletter (e.g., “Weekly Writing Tips” or “Stories from a Small Town”).
- Send your first email! It can be as simple as introducing yourself and sharing a short piece of writing.
Example: A friend of mine started a Substack newsletter about her journey as a first-time mom. At first, she only had a handful of subscribers, but over time, her audience grew. Now, she’s making enough to cover her coffee habit (and then some).
3. Wattpad (The Storyteller’s Haven)
If you’re a fiction writer, Wattpad is your golden ticket. It’s a platform where millions of readers go to discover new stories, from romance and fantasy to mystery and sci-fi. And the best part? It’s free to use.
Why It’s Great for New Writers:
- Engaged Readers: Wattpad readers are passionate and love to comment, vote, and share their favorite stories.
- Serial Format: You can publish your story chapter by chapter, which keeps readers coming back for more.
- Opportunities: Some Wattpad stories have been turned into books, movies, and TV shows (hello, The Kissing Booth!).
How to Get Started:
- Create a free Wattpad account.
- Start writing your story! You can upload chapters as you go or publish the whole thing at once.
- Engage with readers by responding to comments and participating in Wattpad communities.
Example: I know a writer who started posting her fantasy novel on Wattpad. At first, she only had a few readers, but as the story gained traction, it blew up. Now, she’s working on turning it into a series.
Bonus Tip: Don’t Put All Your Eggs in One Basket
While these platforms are amazing, it’s a good idea to diversify. For example, you could write on Medium and start a Substack newsletter. Or post your fiction on Wattpad and share snippets on social media. The more places you share your work, the more opportunities you’ll have to connect with readers.
Final Thoughts: Just Start
The hardest part of being a writer is often just starting. It’s easy to get stuck in the “what ifs” and “how comes.” But here’s the truth: you don’t have to be perfect. You don’t have to have it all figured out. You just have to start.
So, pick a platform, write something, and hit publish. It doesn’t have to be a masterpiece—it just has to be yours. Because the world needs your voice, your stories, your perspective. And who knows? This might be the beginning of something amazing.
Now go out there and write. The world is waiting. 🚀