It only relatively work depending on where you are on your cross server. If the server is quite old and you start to begin, you won't see any differences. The early you focus on your power in the beginning and not go hard in doing plot instances, the better you will be placed. There are a lot of noobs who will go straight in doing plot instances. You don't have to completely stop leveling but slow down. I know I won't compete against whales but I know I can compete against noobs who don't pay attention.

That means, they dont whale too much.. Most ppl play either completely F2P or by buying monthly cards only.