we have to keep in mind that good content and rewards are intertwined with each other and one shouldn't really expect any sorts of rewards without putting in his/her 100% everytime.
Yeah, that's the main point here.
making new connections and friends is very important as it builds a strong circle around me. The rewards will just follow.
When one has good connections, rewards always come definitely. Your friend would surely support you. Also with the fact that you make quality content, more people would find you.