A big part is making friends and getting your name out there, involved with the community. But a small you can see with some users like myself, it only takes you so far if there aren’t a bunch of dolphins and whales among your following, one isn’t enough because few people will read an dupvote ALL your posts, even if they are great, too much going on here. I’ve tried pandering to large users and it leaves an aweful taste in my mouth and is just a slow and grueling a process unless you happen upon the right one. So many are pandering, you might as well just be yourself, strong and proud and don’t get too emotionally invested in the platform itself, get invested in the friendships you can make cause those are more reliable than payout. Stick around though, it’s a good place despite the BS.