I'm a novice to Steemit platform (less than a month). So-called Minnows. Still wrapping my head around to master the platform.
The first time, I learned about this "awesomazing" platform from one of crypto's 
My experience
I work in IT industry and most of my day goes at coding (programming), unraveling enigmatic client requirements. Not all day I'm active on Steemit (time is my enemy), but often I employ dense two hours to draft a post and foresee it would get noticed by someone.
But, it doesn't (often)
My experience and two cents advice (even if it's coming from a Minnow)
Do I get discouraged?
Nah!
Rather, it motivates me to study what's wrong. What I can do to improve myself. How do I fabricate a genuine community with these amazing people out there. Everyone has a pack of experience and individual perspective. You can learn from them.
Wisdom is knowledge.
And, knowledge is right here, in this community.
Everybody is here to help whenever you need them. All you need- just ask
Last two days I have settled times to read and understand from another post. As I said, I'm still a newbie. I have gathered valuable tips from 
Tips For Newer Users on Steemit
Yesterday, My chances of finding firepower's this post was a mere serendipity.
"Never lost hope that Steemit is real, tangible and it will grow with time." He said.
He has been part of this platform since almost it's inception, I surmise. How he has built the financial stability built around Steem and cryptocurrency is just astounding.
I went through all the post from 
Answering Common Questions
And if you want to master about life, you should check out 
And, I'm serious. I said, "life."
I know, it's a big word, but I can guarantee you, so as she.
The aspect of human life, no one can perceive better than her.
And, she has this fantastic tips of writing a proficient and professional post here
My list will go on if I keep referring everyone here.
What did I learn from them? What is my takeaway?
Consistency
"Consistency" is key. You might not receive the expected up-votes for your amazing content (this time), but I'm sure your content being watched and noticed. You managed to have few more followers who will wait for your next content and up-vote.
And, if you continue to do that over a span of time, there you have it.
- Your followers
- Your expected up-votes and
- Your deserving steem dollars
Quality Content
Contributing quality content for the growth of this community is important. Often you should ask,
How can I help?
User prefers to read engaging content, and if you provide one, it will get noticed. Fabricate a title which will grab people attention, and they click your post.
Build the community
This takes time, and it's okay.
Do I have odd 500 followers?
No
But, will I have it after two months (if I'm consistent)?
Sure.
No one gets overnight success. No one. Always remember this.
Find posts which are interesting to you. Devote time reading them and add valuable comments. Not just
Nice post.
You got the gist.
It takes the time to understand other Steemian. Only with consistent touch you will build the relationship and grab your followers.
Most importantly, have fun
It's not the end of the world if one post doesn't get you deserving dollar(s). Move on.
Focus on next post which you like. Experiment with intriguing ideas. Write something you always wanted to write.
Have fun with you skill. Over times, you will get better- I can promise you that.
Do let me know what you think.
Image Source: pinterest.com (if not mentioned above)