In most cases you get out what you put in. I had a clear strategy from the start and it was simple... just dont cut corners... no sub for subs no begging for shoutouts (hate that with a passion) and it totally destroys your channel and comments section so I made a point of banning those particular words, they go straight into spam. A lot of the traffic comes from social media , what i noticed is that you have to be absolutely savage and ruthless in your approach... join forums, groups and communities on all platforms. Start talking about what your passionate about, share your thoughts and engage ... then politely ask people to take a look... there is no shame in asking
.... you dont ask... you dont get