Essentially, unless a guy was brought into a family because he was "capable" as they say to do "work." 99% of all others are in "truth" to strengthen the bosses and family financially.
Whether that be in the form or earning for the family over a number of years, and kicking up profits from various rackets, or some of the more blatant jerk-offs attempting to "buy" their way in by handing over a fat envelope in one shot to their superior (which for the old-timers was an insult and made you look like a sucker).
It was never supposed to be about $$$$, but of course at the end of the day, most mafiosi are there for money and power it brings.
Some get "in" because they are related by blood, or close friendships. But its always about the money. Regardless of how the bosses wanna portray it.
Now by insult to the old timers are you talking about the guys that paid Albert Anastasia a fat envelope to get in or Jerry Anguilo who paid 100k in the early 50s to get in?????
