At first, it really does help so you can read PMs. The weekly ads here are free, and the photo board is also free, so consider the cost for 1-2 months as part of the costs for getting started; it's not a bad price if you look at how much ads cost elsewhere. Once you get your first review, you'll be able to PM, and you can decide if you want to keep it or not.
Even though the reviews are "fictional," I certainly found them very enlightening at first, especially for seeing what goes wrong on dates and what goes oh-so-right. I've read enough reviews that I don't really use it for that any longer, but now I use it to get insight into tastes/compatibility of someone who may contact you. It's just one additional tool I can use in the overall screening process.Generally it is good idea for provider to buy VIP, right?
As a provider, you can get free PMs through the limited VIP you are entitled to for just having a profile up. All you need to do is contact TER Administration and ask for it.
But with the paid VIP, you can read the reviews of all members, and that can be a great asset when you are contacted by a TER member who writes reviews as you can learn what their particular desires and wants are.
Knowledge is power, after all
...all info on TER. Providers can get a free limited VIP membership once they have a review. Check the link I included for information. This info is in the Self-Help Center.
I agree with the above posters, it does give you many advantages. Those advantages will assist you in your screening of potential clients. However, it's up to you as to whether or not it is worth it to you. I'm sure there are many providers out there that get along just fine without VIP membership here. I'm not promoting it or saying don't do it, it's up to the individual provider as to whether or not it's worth it.
LLAP,
Swim
At first, it really does help so you can read PMs. The weekly ads here are free, and the photo board is also free, so consider the cost for 1-2 months as part of the costs for getting started; it's not a bad price if you look at how much ads cost elsewhere. Once you get your first review, you'll be able to PM, and you can decide if you want to keep it or not.
Even though the reviews are "fictional," I certainly found them very enlightening at first, especially for seeing what goes wrong on dates and what goes oh-so-right. I've read enough reviews that I don't really use it for that any longer, but now I use it to get insight into tastes/compatibility of someone who may contact you. It's just one additional tool I can use in the overall screening process.
As Kerri said, 1-2 months will help you get acclimated to TER and PMs. You can pay for monthly VIP by CC or you can use the anonymous Gift Card option. The redemption rates vary.
You buy a GC for cash. You use that to pay for VIP. It's something like $30 GC for 24 days of VIP. $75 GC for 90 days of VIP.
Good luck
