It seems complicated and long at first but once you get it, it is done easily. For instance, try to explain "how to walk" to someone who had an accident and forgot it. Even thought we know exactly how to walk and start doing it takes less than a second, it takes days to explain/master.
Another suggestion: Adding a small section above the top10 with a random link from "new". And for that link, you need to click yes or no depending of if it is interesting.
What I like about this approach is the randomness in it where random people get random link. I also like the fact that by you aren't choosing between 30 links.. you only get one and you need to say if it's interesting or no. Also, I like the fact that it's on the front page.
So, the top 10 links could be the most yes-ed in a certain period, or the ratio yes/no ratio, or anything really.. You could also put more weight on a yes if you've got more point in HN (Simply because I usually trust their judgement.. for instance, they know when something has already been shown dozen of time)
Also, it feels a little bit more like a game to me.. each time I refresh I need to really participate to say if that special link is interesting or no.. :D
That article totally describe me. Really realist and interesting read. However, it's kind of normal to have no content if the goal of the site is to let you share things with your friends.