On some of the sites I’m on. I stay online when I’m not actively broadcasting because my regulars DM me when they see that I’m on there, with my messages open. Mainly mfc for that. Just because I am not offering live shows at that time, doesn’t mean I can’t sell them other things, or make appointments for the next time I am on live. Or even just say hi to those who regularly support me and are very respectful and fun people privately, without random lurkers waiting in the wings watching and witnessing our convos.
Lots of us sell dirty or fetish talk sext packages. A lot of times on loyal fans or some of the other sites. I offer a set fee for my undivided attention via DM to talk dirty or role-play for a set amount of time. So I do pictures and sext packages. None of which involve actually opening my room fully, but still make the site and myself money.
Free chat is draining for those of us who are mainly privates focused. And many of us who have been doing this for a long time already have a large collection of people that we can email and message and interact with, without even having to open our rooms.