On Twitch, size matters. Larger streams are higher up on Twitch's search displays. At the same time, smaller streamers lack the “social proof” that a larger audience provides. If you're hoping to make people watch you, an audience is the best guarantee you can offer that your channel is worth watching. Getting your viewer count above 15-20 on average puts you at a point where many potential viewers will first start taking note of your channel.
Attracting at least those first few viewers and regular chatters has to be a priority if you want to grow. There's no guarantee of success, but here are a collection of techniques you might try to jump start your stream:
- Beg your family and friends to watch your stream. They are your most immediate "social network" and surprisingly few new broadcasters take advantage of this. Obviously, your content might not appeal to all of them, but you would be surprised how many of the people who are close to you will show up just because you care about something.
- Spread the word on forums, subreddits, and online communities related to the games you will be playing. Obviously, follow the rules of the places you are posting. If self-promotion isn't allowed just don't. But you would be surprised how many places allow or even encourage lets plays. Look for developer's forums, game subreddits, fan websites, and communities. Inform them about your let's plays, update them on your in game progress, and share your experiences.
- I mention this one with hesitance, but don't forget you may well have friends and viewing acquaintances on Twitch itself that would be interested in your streaming efforts. Advertising in Twitch chats is a huge faux pas. Still, you might know and contact some chat friends directly. Likewise you can consider messaging a broadcaster if you are a regular member of their community and ask if you can mention your stream. The worst they can do is say no.
- Organize a "grand opening" day for your shameless self promotional efforts. The people who are nice enough to support your efforts will only do so for a short time before fatigue sets in. You want to maximize the effect by concentrating all your efforts in a short period of time.
- Choose your initial games carefully. Ideally, pick games where your stream will be within the first two rows of the current live streams for that game. Preferably with one or two medium sized streams larger than your cast. This provides visibility while leaving you room to attract an audience from the people actively interested in that game. Trying to play an overcrowded or obscure game will likely doom your efforts to failure.
This stuff may seem like next to nothing in the large scale. But, from personal experience, it works. Small viewer gains help a lot when your channel is still small, so don't be afraid to work hard for those initial views. As long as you are putting out high quality content, you stand a great chance of attracting and securing long term viewers from your early effort.