only thing that we must do is accept that we as human beings have a void that must be filled. We have a need for salvation because of the sin that began with Adam and continues to live in us today. After that acknowledgement and prayer to Jesus Christ, we are forever His. Of course living out good works and love and grace are all outward signs of this inward decision. There is prayer, bible study, church, discipleship, etc. etc. These are awesome fantastic tools God has given us here on earth. They are not however "tickets" to heaven or a relationship with the Lord.
If we could somehow "earn" God's grace then what purpose would the gift of Jesus have?