Bitcointalk is not an office.
~ Don't be conscious of merit but understand the system of making quality posts
Don't beg merit from merit sources
Certain users are designated as "merit sources". They can create new merit out of nothing, up to a limited number per month (which differs per source). I will not be posting a definitive list of merit sources (so that people don't bug them too much), though you'll soon figure out who they are if you pay attention.
Do not beg for merit excessively.