What precisely are providers looking for when they prescreen? I have not yet been to one and it seems they want an employment reference and another provider reference.

They are trying to establish a comfort level with you that you are who and what you say you are.

Most importantly the are making sure you are not LE (law enforcement).

they want as much information on you as they can get to ensure a safe date. IMHO the amount of private info given should be a function of whether you have an SO or wife. Then they are going to want references but you don't have any so you're going to have to give up more info. I read once on the board that a provider wanted drivers lic. #. Don't ever give that out cause in some states it's also you SS# and there are scam artist out there that will steal your identity. It's a great hobby but be careful and study the reviews. Have fun lvp

Are there “standard” interview questions?
I’ve read in some places that they want phone # for place of employment. Isn’t that absurd, especially if you’re paying in cash?
What kind of a reference are they looking for from another provider?

And I'm confused - why do you think method of payment has anything to do with verifying who you are?!?

unless your willing to give work # you are probably not going to get a date. I would be leery of a provider that did not screen or require references from a provider. You are better off starting with an agency than an indy b/c a good indy will make you jump thru some hoops that by your post you are probably not willing to do. Just my .02

You have to have a comfort level yourself, as well as the lady.  Not everyone will ask for a work reference.  I will NEVER give out a work reference or number (bad experience).

There are many that require different types of info.  You can also get a reference through Date Check.  Good luck.

Every lady IS different.  Forget that and you're making a BIG mistake.  I personally don't mind any prescreening questions (I've been asked everything from "are you fat?" to what my work # is and on to "bring a recent pay stub along with your drivers license") and I'm married.  If I was asked something that I didn't feel comfortable with giving out, I'd ask what other info would they accept in its place.  As stated earlier, most girls are just trying to establish that you are who you say you are and not LE (and not someone who's jerking their chain).  Go with it or find another hobby.

They want your work number so that they can verify that you are not LE. Date-check and Roomservice2000 are alternatives for that, although those services want your work number to verify you. At least the Lady will not have your #.

For their personal safety, they also like references to make sure you are not weird. If you have no references, then a long phone call can help them develop some comfort with you.

Tokai,

Very informative response. I appreciate that.

If a provider or a service (Date-Check or Roomservice2000) were to call my employer, what should I expect them to request? The typical employment verification? How would they most likely identify themselves?

They typically either ask to be connected to you, or sometimes ask questions like a prospective loaner (aka, bank or credit lender) might ask.  They aren't going to say "yea, Bill is wanting to pay me for sex - is he there?"  

Just relax.  All will be well.

RS2K called the main number, asked for me, and was transferred to my extension. The receptionist does not ask questions, just transfers the call.

I answered, and we chatted for a few minutes. She identified who she was (calling from RS2K to verify me). I do not recall any intrusive questions. Just some small talk.