Cutting corners may seem like a good idea however it will rarely result in something lasting and usually ended badly. Applying effort, passion and some personality is a better way forward here, and if outbound engagement (reading and commenting on other people's posts) is done well relationships will form over time.

I don't like to hear that someone gave you a short and valueless reply to your questions on how to improve. I don't know the situation so won't comment much, but urge you to continue asking questions, in the right way of course, and the answers will come.