Man I got no idea if there even is a PM/DM feature. There apparently is a chat that works sometimes.
Secret is there is no secret as far as I can see.
Truth be told I got no idea whatever what happened there. I only know some people's vote counts more than others and some posts get picked up into a momentum but there doesn't seem to be a system behind it. I literally have no clue.
The only thing I've read is that this is one of those slow and steady wins the race kinda things and it also seems to be a very honest, open and sincere platform. Meaning if you put out quality content and connect with the commentators and other contributors over time you'll be able to build a following and if you keep giving you'll keep getting.
That said, I got here via cryptos and precious metals and didn't even expect to even get 1 cent out of it. I still have no idea if I'll even get anything cuz the voters and the system gets paid by your earnings. This is what it's about for me in terms of building the network and the infrastructure (steem and blockchain) behind it.
I'm looking forward to this crazy ride, even if I make zap I'll still share and contribute cuz I enjoy the community.
Yep OK, like a website, good quality regular content etc etc wins out.
Looking forward to it. Actually.
I too got here via cryptos..