the bid bots do work, make sure you are using it correctly, make sure you read the rules.
In my opinion, it's ok to upvote your own quality post. I don't think it is ok for newbies to upvote their own lame comments, however. But, that has little affect on steemit really so I don't sweat it.
If you need help with the bots, let me know. Try sending small amounts to @appreciator and @upme and see if that works for you. Each of them have a minimum bid so make sure to check that out. randowhale just came back and the rules are different now than what they were
Thanks so much @gringalicious Much appreciated.