Let me make the things clear by stating point wise 
1) Initially one gets a basic reputation as 25 and it increases when that person gets upvotes and vice-versa.
2)Writing good content and make people learn from your post would automatically fetch you upvotes and drives your repo.
3)Write articles about trending topics so that many people go through your writing
4) Don't use unnecessary tags as people many flag you.
5) Better no to write on sensitive topics as it may harm someone.
6)Don't spam others post by writing unnecessary comments.
7)Don't mess with whales
8) Make a core group who upvotes your posts as soon you publish(very important)

happy steaming :)