huge learning curve, and the payouts aint what they are used to be.

I think, in the long run, that its a worthy time investment

for starters, make sure to make GOOD comments on the posts you enjoy writing [ahem, READING]...
something like good post will get you flagged sooner of later, so put some thought into them

second thing, find a couple of communities that you feel comfortable in, it's worth getting some followers/votes that way; there are alos communites that help new steemers; @minnowbooster, @minnowbuilder
I hate using Discord, but it is a good way to make Steemit connections ;>

third, learn to use markdown..really makes your posts more presentable!

Good luck here!