This is absolutely priceless:
"...the secret is consistent posting and sharing over time while individually responding as much as possible to requests by friends and family to learn more about Steem."
Consistency and tenacity are key. It wont come over night but does build upon itself.
I've noticed a lot of comments from new people (minnows) expecting some sort of get rich quick plan. This is an investment, not just money but time, skills and interaction. Jerry breaks it down so good.
I agree with that completely.
Of course, I can understand the sentiment but this is a way to make money through consistent and dedication action. I believe the riches will come on here to anyone willing to put in the effort to build things. It is a growing community and we all have our part in making it grow.
I find each day my stats grow a bit more...more followers, more posts, more upvotes, and more posts on my feed. It is up to me to keep that up to get it to result in more money.
Just keep doin work consistantly and the stats will tell the rest.