Understand where you're coming from. To get in TSE for me was a challenge and I'm sure you remember the story and what I had to do to attain my goal. Can others do such things, and would that work in today's world?
I'm sure it would help, and any reader who takes all this bumf in that I write above will be able to figure that out. Just do me a favour and stick around, will you?
Well, if you want to know the real story-behind-the-story, I had noticed you in my travels before you showed up at the door. I thought you showed real promise (especially compared to what we were dealing with at the time) but you were still getting your feet under you. I wondered whether you had to tenacity to make it happen -- and in that you've been a terrific surprise. I've used your name and the word "irony" in our server lately. This is part of it. (Look back at some of your early work and you'll see what I mean, I'm sure.) You've turned out to be one of our best. (That "temperament" thing also works in your favor.) We're happy to have you. And fortunate, too. (In case I haven't said so specifically ... there you go.)
As to whether or not your experience would work in today's world -- probably not in the same way. For one thing, when one of our members mentions someone to consider, keep in mind ... s/he's recommending your work and going to bat for you. That kind of judgment counts! It should also help with the "quality" issue. (At least that's the theory I'm working on.)
Did you know someone (besides me) who was impressed enough to put your name and content up for consideration back in the day? Hmmm. Makes you think, doesn't it?
I didn't know that. I saw.. 'this is my standard rejection reply'.. from the 'cat', but then he seemed to have second thoughts... haha.. its so long ago now and the memory kind of makes me smile.
I had similar issues with @qurator, but for different reasons. I don't really follow them anymore, but still give them a vote for a vote.
I did see, though I don't interact much on discord now.
I will keep an eye out, due to the crap price of STEEM many are unwilling to put in the effort, so finding the potential is harder. It could be there, but at 40c per.. compared to $2.80 per.. when I started, that $ holds some sway.
I knew nobody when I started, and did it the hard way. Glad I did TBH, boot camp hardens you and makes you learn.