Very true about the rates paid - I've spent time with writers of niche subjects, who provide regular articles to the likes of the Guardian and Telegraph, who revealed the minuscule rates paid to them. So in addition they run niche websites/blogs, aiming to build a following in the 10,000's on...
Three other ways:
1. #together squad spirit.
2. Skalak.
3. Fortress Amex ... until about 70 minutes when swathes start their usual mass stampede towards the trains and buses.