I can relate with you on finding it confusing the first time and the low engagements. And I think most of us go through such phase unless you already know a lot of people here. It's one of the challenges in starting.
And I totally agree with you on the pointers you mentioned (research, engagements, avoid tagging. It's my first time reading about vote buying. Where can I buy some? LOL! Kidding aside, I honestly am not aware that such scheme exists here in Hive.

Enjoy it, and don't just make it about how much money you make.

This is the little magic :) Enjoying the things we do. Focusing on the money takes out the fun.