I think that the 'try it out' method that some people use is definitely wrong - especially when they head down the F4F path. With the 6 degrees of separation we all must know someone that is new to the platform and that we could guide a little more. I personally have mentored friends and family that have shown an interest... taught them the ins and outs and how to do a good introduceyourself post. I think that everyone should have a goal to mentor new users and help turn up the retention and ensure the appropriate pressure is there to post meaningful content, join a community or just plain interact... but then encourage them to pick up a friend or if you are spread too thin the next person that you on board - ask for help from your newly minted novitiate.