Beyond looks, services, or rates, there are small moments that make someone feel genuinely appreciated rather than just processed. It’s interesting how often people mention things that aren’t written on any profile or menu.

such as things about my family, or my interests, etc.

and using my name and not calling me "Hun" on the first date.  

A finger in the ass doesnt hurt.

My first regular.  
She was all those thiings mentioned in the OP, but that just makes her a detail oriented pro.

If those are the types of nails the gals you like rock, i would be doubtful too.

She is retired for some time now, but Natalia Belle was a wonderful lady.  She had everything a provider needed to be in demand. Her most impressive feature was how open and real she was, truly like being with your lover in real life. Her website said "Natalia" was really her, just with a name change.  It certainly felt that way.

I really enjoy thinking that a provider enjoyed my company (money) and wants to see me again.
Especially if it's someone that I see a lot...it means so much more.
Just her sending a text in the morning saying something along the lines of "I'm available for you" makes me feel good.

Or the dreaded sweetie.
I like it  when they call and remember me by my first name. That goes along way in my book.
"Hi Happy, nice to meet you"."I had a great time with you Happy", "I hope to see you soon, Happy". and the "Have a great day Happy".....And the "Ohhh Happy, you make me soooo happy".......couldn't help myself on that one...lol..relax

A new friend made a similar comment not long ago and it surprised me.  Back in the day, openly discussing BBFS was a 'kiss of death' for a lady's reputation, as was 'soliciting' previous clients out of the blue (different than announcing a tour).  It was thought to imply that she'd fallen on hard times and was trying to drum up business to save her neck, often prompting speculation about chemical dependency or having to appease a 'manager'.
.
Has there been a sea change similar to the BBFS topic or has this always been a preference among gents?  Curious minds....

Sometimes I like it, sometimes I hate it. Sometimes it comes off as endearing other times it comes off as impersonal and desperate. There have been many  times a provider sends me a message letting me know that they are going to be in town and I book an appointment on the spot. There are other times where it causes me to block their number. In general I don't like being messaged out of the blue. Getting random messages from a provider can potentially cause trouble. I'm currently single, but if I were to get into a relationship the last thing I need is a bunch of random text messages from providers I've seen in the past saying "hey baby I'm in town." It depends on a few factors.  
.
1) How many times have we seen each other? If I saw an escort once for an hour, I don't want to get a message from her. If I've been a repeat customer and/or booked multiple hours, I don't mind getting a message from a provider.
.
2) Did we have good chemistry? If I have an average session with a provider, I probably don't want to repeat and don't appreciate a message out of the blue. If we both had a great time and clearly enjoyed each other's company then yea, I appreciate the message. If a provider can't tell when a client is having a great time or an average time, it makes me doubt their ability.
.
3) How often am I getting the messages? If you're visiting my area frequently or sending me texts frequently I'm not going to appreciate getting a message every time you're in town. One message every two months is around my limit. Providers I have a good rapport with get a bit more leeway, but I have had providers burn me out by overdoing it.
.
4) The content of the message. If the message feels forced, generic, or like it is being sent to every client I'm not going to like it. If it feels like I'm getting bullshitted I'm out. If it feels personalized and earnest, it is more likely to have a positive impact. Its all about the rapport.
.
There seems to have been an increase in the amount of providers available. But there has also been a decrease in the amount of reputable, well reviewed providers. As a result, I am more picky, see fewer providers and repeat more often. I think this is why there may be a bit of a shift. However, you do have to be careful because it can be a turn off if not done correctly. Save it for your best/favorite clients and don't overdo it. E-mail is probably better than texts as well.  
.
In terms of BBFS, I think the prevalence of PrEP has changed people's mind. There have always been providers offering it, but it was usually not openly talked about the way it is today. Keep in mind this does go both ways. Clients can be judged by providers for engaging in it.

....but an occasional text or email from a provider to see how things are going and also to solicit business, particularly if they are touring and want to see if any repeat clients are available. But I can understand why many won't want to do it.  

Usually, communication is pretty slow when you are trying to book someone the first time.  

Also interesting how many people have said remembering their names and being addressed by their names.

Yeah, this one is going to be a bit tough for me. I only keep email addresses and no personal information. I just checked my email and I currently have 612 saved email contacts that have sent me their screening and were "OK'd" to see.  Some guys do have their real names in their email addresses. Many do not. I don't care either way. If your email is listed as davesmith54321 and your real name is Ryan Rodgers I am only going to know you and remember you as Dave Smith, not Ryan. If you mentioned your kid starting kindergarten I am going to remember that and ask you about it, but as to your real name that is a long shot. I don't keep any of your personal info for your protection, including your legal name. In all of the years of doing this I have never had a client say they wanted me to remember their real name and refer to them with their real name during the appointment, but other clients/providers are free to chime in on the topic with their opinion!!!

I made a comment about this above. Lawyers or doctors are doing a job that is legal and are able to keep (and are required!!) to keep very accurate records of all of their clients. Sex workers are not. I would love to keep records of all of my clients but that is just not feasible, safe, or in any way recommended. I very much value my clients and do my best to be prompt in answering their messages as well as being fully present and focused on them during an appointment, beyond that if my computer were to be hacked or my appointment book was stolen I hope my clients feel some comfort knowing the only information about them that will be gleaned is an email address and no personal identifying information.

I do think you are probably more of an exception in that you don't keep records, but it makes sense.

wear a name tag written in Hangul^^!
Works great and even gets a laugh^^!

You could always try to class it up and use Hanja.

or "Sweetie"

Real talk though, a now-retired kgirl has told me some customers would throw a fit and be very upset if she didn't remember them so she started acting like she recognized them. A name tag would certainly help. Lol.

The constant flow of clients, the here today gone tomorrow aspect.
This should be a given

This game attracts needy, socially inept head cases who are desperate to believe hot girls give a shit about them personally. So they react badly when that bubble gets popped.
There's no reason to expect women to remember your name. These guys should be happy they can use their money to get laid and leave it at that.

Its very common and very annoying.