Here is a list on how to rank up on the server you play on.

1) When first joining be friendly and engage in conversation.
2) Don't ask staff members to spawn you stuff.
3) Don't ask for a rank as soon as you join.
4) Play often.
5) Vote daily for that server on server list websites.
6) Write comments about the server on those websites also.
7) Be a good builder.
8) Or be a good redstoner.
9) Participate in server events.
10) Invite people to the server and let staff members know.
11) Help new players by answering common questions about plugins and how the server works.
12) Request plugins that would be good for that server on their website or to their staff.
13) Be an active member on their website.
14) Donating isn't necessary to be ranked but it helps.
15) Don't do dumb stuff to get you kicked.
16) Especially don't do dumb stuff to get a temp-ban or a real ban.
17) Don't argue with the staff, especially the owner.
18) Try to get staff members to add you on skype or other things like that.
19) Make videos and put them on youtube of the server. And advertise on other websites.
20) Add/sub to staff on youtube and sites like planet minecraft.

If you like this check out my other "20 Tips" blogs.