I agree that community is important and the slack can be a great resource.

I do think however that ultimately it's about posting quality content.

I'll still maintain that content providers are "Kingmakers".

Yes, Steemit whales will determining whether people get rewarded on Steemit. However where the quality content providers go will determine whether Steemit wins the impending battle of the Blockchain-based social media sites.

Steemit has first mover advantage. It also has a great core team and extended community. So it can lock down the market before other Projects get started. However I think it's important for Steemit Whales and Influencers to keep their ear to the ground and be aware of what the userbase is saying and doing. Rather than expect users to come to them cap-in-hand.

If a poster is providing good content and getting genuine upvotes, comments and creating interest from new users/ small Steem holders, its worth paying attention and rewarding them. Whether that person makes themselves known on Slack or not. (NB: it would be great if there was a Steem-power Slack alternative that was accessible via Steemit).

The search and recruitment of talent is never-ending. Revolutions happen while the incumbents are busy back-slapping themselves and ignore the 'little guy'. Lets continue to lead the social media revolution lest we fall victims to it...