To start off with, this adverstise?
http://otslist.org/?ots=view&id=2221
It's not even accurate to the server in any way. It says its hosted in USA, 4x exp etc.
And this,
http://otservlist.org/search/9a3f18072968aa6142e0ab8a7c78f39d, at least make the IP what it actually is and not just numbers.
Put some effort into your advertising, make sure people see it.
I understand that you might not have all the time in the world to put into the server. When you make an update such as today, explain more about what's new, make people curious. Whats new? Where have you added new parts of map?
The map on the website isn't accurate to what you actually find in-game. (Partly at least)
Now, you've already done this mistake and you can't change it really, but why the hell would players come if you say that you don't really care how many players you have and that it's just practice for you? Makes you look arrogant. Won't attract players.
Some people might say it's the EXP that makes the server less interesting, but let's be honest, with the task system this server is no where close to 2x since you can gain 3-10 levels on turning in ONE task.
Also, look at for example tibianic, its lowrate as fuck, still it has TONS of players. Why? Cuz the owners put effort into advertising it, they put effort into their update notes, they make the players interested.
You on the other hand, you disappeared right when the server started, didn't see you here on OTLand or on the server for the first 2-3 days of the server. Then you come around and say there's an update on the way.
Okay? So what's coming? "Some new content and a new quest (post officer)" Mhm? What kind of new content? Is there any kind of story behind it?
Also, servers that require premium to fully experience the server might make people look around for something else. Still you get 15 days of prem when you make an account, is that actually stated somewhere? Cuz I can't find that info anywhere.
Maybe time will solve this "issue", since long-term servers often attract players with only their online time. I don't know.
Anyway, I bet I can keep writing for another 20min about this, but really, it's not up to me as a player to get the server out there.
I've really enjoyed the server so far, but I've explored most of it, there's not much left to do for my part except maybe taking a look at this new content.
EDIT -
Also...is it supposed to be this way?