Some of the top rules is never beg for someone to follow you, and only vote for good content. Additionally make the content you share something you created originally, and never copy and paste from someone else. The third big rule is be friendly, and spend time to really get to know people, ask questions, and be prepared t give much more than you receive.

Here is a full explanation as to how to get up to speed, thanks to @donkeypong https://steemit.com/steemit/@donkeypong/simply-steemit-your-no-nonsense-guide-to-getting-started

Another one is here by @pinkisland https://steemit.com/steemit/@pinkisland/guide-for-steemit-beginner-or-a-simple-way-for-getting-started

As far as how to write content see this article by @heiritravels https://steemit.com/steemit/@heiditravels/how-to-write-a-quality-steemit-post