Well, I've been around the block. So i'll give you some tips that i've used!
1) Get a partnership as soon as possible, You don't need to monetize. But if one day your channel gets a spike of views or etc. It'd be nice to be prepared.
I suggest Freedom, Since they're generous in their pay-rate and you can leave them any time for a higher-quality partnership. Such as Curse network.
2) You should always have a C.T.A at the end of the video, and always be visually thankful to your subscribers. They're your audience, and you owe every bit of success you obtain to them. So make sure you let them know that!
Always have links to other videos on your CTA I know it's a bit time consuming, But trust me. It's worth it when you do it.
3) Network yourself with as many other youtubers as possible, Especially if they have a larger range of subscriptions then you. And try to receive shout-outs from larger youtubers.
4) Always have fun in your content, If you ever feel like it's getting boring or feeling like a job. Then you're doing something wrong.
Hope this helps, and good luck on YouTube! There is a hard road ahead of you.