The server should be based on what you want to do. PVP server or not, time zone, active raiding guilds if you plan on raiding and at what level. Since it's very easy to transfer servers now, server selection is not a huge deal.
As for characters, play whatever you are comfortable with and have fun with. If you want high utility and easy invites, go cleric. Clerics can heal, tank, and dps pretty well. They are really the only class that can do everything at a pretty high level (as in main tank, and mainheal). Mages can also very much in demand if you play CH (healer) well. Wars are mostly useful as tank but fun DPSers. Rogues are good DPSers and very good party buffers. Both level very fast solo too.
Level up doing a mix of quests and rifts (pvp too). Try to get into instance parties but don't waste your time with bad groups. Try to join a guild early to get advice and help. As you get higher you will realize what you want to do and how you want to play and if the server and guild are good for you.
Skill up gathering trades to make money. At high level or max level then get a craft if you want to make stuff.
http://forums.riftgame.com/rift-general-discussions/general-discussion/72051-rift-community-guide-compendium.htmlGood luck and have fun