@feditips
I find it useful to explore by favorites & boosts: if you see a post you like click the icons to see who boosted/favorited it.

Odds are they may be interesting, possibly welcoming you to their space. They may also be boosting things they think people* would like to see, and maybe you’re also people*!
*(human/fox/cat/dog/goblin/bug/etc)

Feels I’ve never seen mention of this, but it’s been my primary exploration method across many social networks. Made some great friends along the way!