Why are they hidden?  Simply put, to avoid becoming an overnight sensation.  That and writing is one small part of what a company requires to function.  It may seem that an online presence requires an excellent written voice but to be honest, the logistics behind large websites are much more important.  Think about the design issues, shopping carts, product order, layout, ease-of-use and customer service.  Get the idea?

It is not incredibly difficult to pick up regular work with some networking.  Here are some real-time means to your writing end:

1. See a site that is lackluster and in need of editing?  Contact them immediately.  Try the customer service number and ask for the VP in charge of web content.  Call as a potential customer who just happens to be a professional writer.  Make your case and good luck!
2. Think about sites that rely on timely, up-to-date information.  Medical advice, product or media review sites, online catalogs full of copy, how-to sites, do-it-yourself sites, etc.  Do you think all that content is written in-house?  Not likely.  Once again, if you think there is an opportunity, call or email and be prepared to submit writing samples.
3. What are your specialties?  Do you home-school?  Are you a dog expert?  Do you make crafts?  Are you an avid gardener?  Do you practice alternative and preventive health?  Are you an upper level manager with lots of stories and battle scars?  If so, find the sites dedicated to your expertise, peruse their content and ask yourself if you can do better.

Finally, understand that a consistent writing job is an awesome achievement in a time of almost free content availability.  If you are hired it will be because you are good, they need unique content and you have promised to deliver.  Be prepared to write 2-6 articles daily even if they only request one.  Content may need to be organized in accordance to the site’s marketing plan.  You’ll want a Plan B if the site needs something else.

Note:  This is not the time for writer’s block.

If you make $10 for every 400 word article and you are expected to write two every day, that quickly adds up.  Find five jobs like that and you will have achieved a regular part-time income.  Make a new rule.  Always ask for work twice a day, preferably by phone but email is acceptable. 

By the way, this article is 456 words and it took 27 minutes to complete.