Starting out is something of a catch-22 for providers and clients, but everyone has to start somewhere, so here are a couple of thoughts. If you are still seeing or in touch with the previous clients you mentioned, perhaps you could request that one or more of them review you. There are several no cost or very low cost escort ad malls, like myproviderguide and backpage, where you could place an Ad which you could then link to an ad here. Many will scoff at them, and you may not get the best results from the ad, but it is a place to start with minimal investment. There are also a number of hosting sites where you can set up a basic website for very low cost. The ladies can probably advise you better on which of those are best. Lastly, post and introduce yourself on the regional board for your particular area. That will help you establish a presence at least, and hopefully start to build some familiarity and trust. Best of luck to you!
Posted By: anawoods22
Previously as a provider I ONLY operated by word of mouth with very select clients as at the time I wasn't ready to put myself out there, so to speak. ... I have NO idea what I am doing what it comes to networking and such. [...]
I, unfortunately, am not in the position to pay for a website currently or an ad anywhere which leaves me just with the option of linking back to my reviews here.
Based on what you wrote about all the things you lack (network, website, ad budget, etc.), you might want to consider going to work for a local (Chicago?) agency, at least for a little while. People on the Chicago Board can advise you on the good, reputable ones in the area.
I would want to know what your typical fee was an Indy, what was the level of service you provided, how do you normally dress and comport yourself, and so on. Would you be more comfortable with a small local agency, a national glamour GFE agency, or a super-high-end VIP agency? (I'm obviously thinking of some national agencies with a presence in Chicago, but I'm not in Chicago.)
Although you've been indy, once you have an ad and an internet presence you'll need additional skills and the time to apply them: screening your calls and emails (screw that up and you'll get a bad rep); screening your clients (can take some time and effort); arranging schedules (hotels, transportation); etc.. A REPUTABLE agency will do all of that for you and they will take a standard amount out of the advertised rate.
Another option is find an experienced "phone girl" or "assistant" to handle all the screening, scheduling, etc., behind the scenes. Really good ones might be hard to find or already have many clients that use their services.
A few "rookie" mistakes to avoid: I think it was BadCollegeGirl who allowed her first client to pressure her into doing something she didn't want to do; set your limits. WATERMARK your pictures! or someone might steal (copy) them and use them in their ads. If you go with an agency, I THINK you can ask them to honor any initial concerns or restrictions you might have: start out with "nice" prior clients only, so you don't have to worry about newly screened new clients, and so on.
Keep asking newbie Qs here and local Qs at the Chicago board and things should go smoothly.
Good luck.
