The first steps in going indy?
Hey,
I've been working with an agency throughout the summer escorting and while I'm treated really well and the pay is good, the work is very hit and miss. I really enjoy escorting and have been reading a lot here about how to go indy. I have already signed up for Erin Ann Meyer's (sp?) newsletter and found her tips on screening, pricing, etc. really helpful. I've also found a web designer who I'd like to do my website ... when I can afford it. :D
My question is - for women like myself who want to go indy, what is the first few steps in really going for it? I know about providerbuzz, TER, etc. but many of the sites are pretty much impossible to join without having reviews first and I don't think any of my clients through the agency have reviewed me. :( Obviously advertising comes to mind as the first step but it's hard to decipher which sites most successful escorts use.
Any help with this would be muchhhh appreciated! Thank you! :)
Re: The first steps in going indy?
The first step is to use the search button and read everything Malaya Taylor ever wrote on the subject in the forums. Seriously it's like hundreds of pages of info.
Re: The first steps in going indy?
Thank you, I did that. She is why I know the little bit that I do about it. I guess I just feel a little confused b/c to advertise on TER, you have to have a website, reviews or an ad somewhere else and I don't have any of those. So do I get a website first, TER ad second and work on joining providerbuzz etc. in the future OR get a bigdoggie ad, TER, etc.? I can't figure out what Malaya did first. :(
Re: The first steps in going indy?
There are co-ed regional PMB boards that cater to their specific geographical areas.
Just starting out it is good to join one of these.
You:
1) Start talking with the male members. Keep it light and breezy. Don't get too heavy on the sales angle. You'll generate buzz and that buzz will cause interest in seeing you, which will generate reviews on that local board that you can point to in other venues, including your website if you plan on working above the radar, when you start to branch out.
2) It will help you with screening as long term members on these boards are likely safe from an LE perspective. There are no PD's or other law enforcement agencies I am aware of that have thought of creating accounts on these boards to infiltrate the mongering community. If an account shows the member joined a couple of years ago and he reviews and several hundred posts its a safe bet he is what he looks like; a potential customer. Also, reading their posts can be a good tell as to what kind of customer he is going to be.
3) Meeting other providers in these venues can lead to good tips as to local hotels that are good for incall. Potential providers to work doubles with. Etc. As always be careful of potential jealousies and "the bitchiness factor".
These boards are a good way, if used right, to start up as an independent, creating a local following of regulars, and to use as a spring board to bigger things.
Re: The first steps in going indy?
For a star to be born, I suggest that you get an account on P411. This will help you find and screen legitimate clients and also provide for them a sign that you are legitimate. You want to be safe. But you also want to spend time with guys who equally value discretion and safety and appreciate your screening.
Reviews are crucial. They help guys know what you are about and what they might expect in a date with you. Plus, reviews done by trusted guys help to show that you are also to be trusted.
Advertise with good pics and creative write-ups in numerous places, get a website (you mentioned that you are working on it) or use a blog for a poor man's website, provide numerous pics in a variety of poses and backgrounds that show enough of you to interest a potential client but also that you are comfortable with. Use a reputable and good photographer to get good pics, as soon as you can afford it. But don't let that keep you from displaying fun poses taken by you or a friend. (Need help? Just kidding)
Do, as GR mentioned, get registered with the forums that have active members in your area or in areas that you might plan on traveling to. Many of the forum boards allow some advertising. Use it. Join in the some of the conversations on the various threads, as you care. An interesting comment or an attractive avatar pic will encourage a guy to click on your profile and check out your pics and website. Some of these even have a chat room. Try it out, if you have time. The guys in the rooms are always looking to meet potential providers. Don't waste your time if you don't have it. But it can't hurt to flirt a little.
Of course, the ladies can help you better in many areas, like an incall place or deciding on your rates or details about the suggestions I provided above. I only wrote these suggestions from my view regarding things that would attract me and help me feel safe in contacting you. Think things through about what you want to do and what will be your boundaries. What sort of clients do you want to target? How many dates would you have energy for each day while still being at your best?
Re: The first steps in going indy?
Thank you both for all the great advice and thougtful pointers. :) I will definitely follow up on all of those suggestions.
It looks as if the key to being able to join p411 or any other safety network (and legitimize myself to other providers as well as clients) is to get some legitimate reviews posted.
Is it considered tacky to (sweetly) remind a client after a great appointment that reviews are very appreciated?
Re: The first steps in going indy?
I think that you should find a way to encourage him to offer a review if you want/need one. Of course, if you didn't connect or he was a jerk, you might not mention it. If he is a long time client, you might remind him that everyone needed some reviews when they got started and you would appreciate it. If he is new, remind him that he will need some reviews to help establish his credibility with the ladies. There are some ladies who offer a discount rate for guys who write reviews (I think that it is usually for a return visit. So it works out for both client and provider.)
Re: The first steps in going indy?
To the OP: Take Arial's advice. Search posts by MalayaTaylor/Kaylam (me) and Ravenskye and you'll be just fine. Good luck!
Re: The first steps in going indy?
That's right my advice is brilliant :P