The best tip I have is to try and network + get involved with the writing community here. Spend time engaging with other writers. Find Steemit.chat groups where they hang out.

Good call on not asking users to follow you. Most people consider it annoying/spam.

There is also a group in Steemit.chat called #steemprentice where users will help each other network.

The last tip is to just be patient and persistent. If you continue to post good quality content over time, then your audience of followers will slowly grow.