Would appreciate some guidance as to what I should expect to provide for screening and what screening services are reliable and safe. The idea of entering stuff on a website gives me the creeps. Seems like a great way to blackmail someone. ( Iwouldn't want my wife or boss to know for example)

Also, I have seen on some providers' sites that they want references from other porvider(s). Is this common? If so, how does one ever get that first reference?-

Thanks in advance for your help.

I ask for your first and last name, mobile # and either a reference from another provider OR a business # so I can call and ask for you anonymously.  Upon arrival I like to quickly check your photo ID.

If you choose a well-reviewed provider (like myself with 50 reviews over a 20 month period), you can feel secure that she's not going to blackmail you.

Think about it, why would a well-reviewed provider attempt blackmail?  You could tell everyone on TER about it, you'd ruin her ability to work again and blackmail is a serious crime.  Providers make more money providing services than blackmailing people.  It just doesn't make much sense.  Also, I believe that most people aren't assholes.

See, the providers are people too and we don't want our neighbors, family, etc. knowing OUR private business either.

Hope this helps you to see things in a different perspective, good luck!!!

Don't be afraid to post an ISO on your local board and get recommendations for a first provider to visit with.  

Then read through the reviews of the top 1 or 2 recommendations.

Understand that some of us have just as much to lose as YOU do - and we do it to keep ourselves safe - as well as you.

For an example, I will verify someone through their employer if they do not have provider references - and once I discreetly do that (I have a package to be sent to you or am coordinating some landscaping at your home), I discard the information.  

Recommendations from other hobbiests as well as reading through a providers reviews, website, blog, etc  will help you with a level of comfort.

Another way to get screened would be to join a sight such as date-check or preferred411.

name, cell number and a reference or two.  Most will substitute a work # where they call the switchboard to ask for you by name to see if you really work there.  The ladies just want to be certain that they will be safe in your company.

Your screen name would give one the impression you are in the DFW area. I'm not sure what the environment is in Dallas right now as that isn't a City I travel to. But, I am sure they are much more lenient than Atlanta or a few other Cities at this particular time. The LE threat of any City usually has a direct reflection on the providers in the area practicing various degrees of screening.

Please don't misunderstand my statement as many established providers NEVER lower their demands for security. Plus, most established providers can afford to be more particular with their screening. Although it isn't usually public information as to EXACTLY what a provider requires to pass her screening, some providers will give you a good idea through private correspondence,once they are comfortable that you aren't LE. (*Making public posts about specific business practices or mannerisms of behavior jeopardizes everyone and has never been a good practice*)

As mentioned above and in line with my longstanding recommendation.... "Know your provider (*and her reputation*)..... and then build a level of comfort acceptable to both of you that gives you the confidence to set up a meeting.

If you are new to the hobby I'd suggest you use the "Search" tab on the upper right hand side at the top of this forum and spend a little time reading past posts and topics with suggestions to finding a provider for your first encounter. This could also give you suggestions for both your behaviors and expectations of the provider's mannerisms.

Many times a provider just building her client base will overlook your lack of references and experience in the hobby. At times, even some established providers might be in a position to accept clients that they normally wouldn't....depending on the market in your specific area. (*It's all part of that supply & demand thing *LOL*)  Providers who have been established for a longer period of time,make compensations for such fluctuations in the market and thus aren't forced to comprise their screening or safety.

If your particular area has a high LE threat then there is an alternative plan for gaining references, should you travel on business.... When traveling simply use an agency in a City that you visit that has an established reputation within the community. This will then afford you the reference to set up a meeting with a provider in your City that requires one.

Best wishes in finding what you are seeking....    kisses ~Tori

. . . and I post details of what I require for screening because it's listed on my website AND don't you think LE is aware of how we screen?

Three that come to mind are:
Date Check
Roomservice 2000
Preferred 411

The money is well spent and makes verification easier for the ladies.

It make perfect sense. Thanks for these other services you listed.

Ive signed up with Date-Check and Preferred411 and they were very easy to deal with, very professional and helpful.  I still have not set up my first appointment..but soon.