I look at the new tab all the time (right after every time I look at the front page) and I upvote the stuff that gratifies my curiosity and I think will be of value to the community. Hmm, what do I think of this question?
Hmmm, it is a fair question, but one of the reasons I continue to visit HN is because of the quality of postings. It is a discerning audience, tough crowd. So, find interesting things to post and try to be thought provoking. There are a lot of influential people that frequent this site so it is worth your time to try.