I introduced a few locals to the Steemit platform by merely mentioning it to them while discussing how to make money. I think my friends were hard pressed for cash at the time though and weren't genuinely interested in writing, so they didn't participate.

I have been a member here for well over a year, also although not always active. I still have a passion for writing and sharing ideas, too. I decided after a six-month hiatus from Steemit to come back because some of my favorite online personalities are fixtures on the platform.

I also find that participating in the Steemit community helps me to improve my writing skills and to network with others who have similar values, interests and pastimes.

In conclusion, I think if community members were to address the benefits of being an active member to those who have yet to join the platform, new people would be more inclined to join. Another thing I've noticed is to engage with others in a discussion on social media platforms instead of ignoring comments. Unless someone is intentionally harassing you then there is no need to post and ignore the users who honestly read your material. I find those who decide not to engage in dialogue limit their audience and usually after a couple of times being ignored users aren't inclined to continue following or reading material from those authors.