This is getting frustrating.  I've contacted several gals and they immediately ask for references and when I say I don't have any, they clam up.  Need advice on how to get that first one.  It's like applying for a job and being told that you don't have the "experience required".

best way to get your foot in the door is to do one of the following:

1.  Use an agency that will also give references.  Agencies typically have less stringent screening requirements.

2.  If you have to go independent (which I think is safer) for your first one, just say in your initial email that you don't have any references, but will provide, upon request, your name and office number (general number, not direct line).  Also, you would be willing to bring your W-2 when you have your appointment, and can email from your work account.

Also, if you intend to do this often, get yourself a hobby phone (prepaid, clean) to keep your risk lower.

Best of luck.

You can enter the words "get references" into the search engine and fine enough reading for the next two months.

Executive summary:

1.  Get membership in one of the outfits that does screening such as Room Service (RS2K) and/or

2.  Keep plugging away until you find a provider who will give you a break.  It's best to write, not call, and to make a brief, well written appeal that sells yourself on why they should see you.  (Spelling and grammar definately do count!)

Best of luck.

Folks, thanks for your suggestions, all of which I have tried save for the W2.  I said I would give phone numbers to everyone except my minister and my wife. I have been doing this via email and do my best to sound sincere and I tell them, in the simplest terms possible, that I am real and not a threat.

JOIN DATE-CHECK OR SOME OTHER VERIFING SERVICE!!!
You shouldn't have a problem if you do that, it's been said on here a million times!
Follow our suggestions, it WILL help!
Jay

There is always someone out there, that only screens and doesnt as k for references -

Join a verification service -
THis ensures us many things -

Where it is you are from ?