If you’re witty, outgoing, and oozing with sex appeal, an escort career can be the perfect way to cash in your talents. But before the fat stacks start rolling in, you’ll need the info on how to become an escort.
To assist you on this journey, we’ve put together an all-in-one guide that’ll cover the following:
- What is an escort?
- Do escorts really make a lot of money?
- The difference between incall and outcall escorting
- Working with an agency vs. going solo
- How to become an escort
- Tips for escorting
Let’s get started!
What is an Escort?
First, let’s shed some light on what an escort career is about. In essence, an escort provides companionship in exchange for an agreed-upon price.
Obviously, companionship is a vague term. It can be simply dining, chatting with a customer, providing sex services, or anything in between.
For example, some people hire escorts as a plus one for social events or trips. The service may include a girlfriend experience, and it often involves physical intimacy.
But contrary to popular belief, escorting doesn’t revolve around sex. In fact, sexual services aren’t a must at all, which leads us to our next point.
Are escort workers prostitutes?
Escort vs. Prostitute: What is the Difference?
The short answer is no — an escort and a prostitute aren’t two peas in the same pod. Although there’s an undeniable overlap between the two, the nature of the service, job requirements, and social status are distinct.
Simply put, a prostitute is any person who engages in sexual activities for payment. Prostitution exists in various shapes: streetwalkers, brothel workers, bar or hotel prostitutes, etc.
But what all of them have in common is that their primary service is sex.
Unlike prostitution, escort work is a mixed bag of tasks. While escorts can and often do offer sexual services, there’s so much more to this calling.
One week, it’s a business trip with a client. Next, it’s an intimate dinner with a person who seeks warm interaction with an attentive listener.
In addition to reasonably good looks, the job requires impeccable manners, conversational skills, and emotional intelligence.
And while it’s true that both prostitution and escort work carry an amount of stigma, the former bears the brunt of that bad rep. Let’s elaborate.
The Stigma
As we just said, sex work does come with its share of stigma. Sadly, in this day and age, there are still those who frown upon escorts and consider their work unethical.
And the truth is, sex work is just that — work. The clients pay for a service, and escorts provide it.
In normal circumstances, no one is harmed, and the exchange of money and service is transparent and consensual. In a perfect world, sex work would be regarded as any other profession out there.
But as the world is far from perfect, you’ll have to decide whether you’ll be open about your escort career or keep it under wraps.
Ideally, your friends and family will support your choices. However, if you can’t be open about it, you’ll need to invent a cover story to account for you working at night, on weekends, and being away for several days on trips.
Either way, make sure you’re comfortable with your work, and don’t let it disrupt your personal life and relationships.
Is Escorting Legal?
The answer to this question will depend on where you live. As for the US, while prostitution is illegal everywhere except in ten counties in Nevada, escorting is legit in most places.
However, some states, such as California, require escorts to obtain a license.
To complicate things further, if an escort offers sex as a part of their service, it’s considered prostitution and illegal by default.
And even if you happen to work in Nevada, you can only provide sexual services in licensed brothels.
That’s why your best bet is to do your homework on the local regulations and be cautious about how you phrase the services that you’re willing to provide.
One way to go about it is to send a disclaimer to each customer before meeting them.
The disclaimer can state that you are a model who offers company in exchange for an agreed-upon price. And if something more happens between you and your client, it’s by no means financially compensated.
That way, you can avoid potential legal issues and protect yourself and your clients.
Types of Escorting
Escorting might not be the easiest or most stress-free job out there, but one thing’s for sure — it’s never dull.
Each worker will typically assume various roles and have different tasks from appointment to appointment.
So, although this is by no means a complete list, here are six typical types of escorting.
1. Niche Escort
Being a niche escort is popular because the competition is less fierce than in other types of escorting. As a result, gaining and keeping regulars will be easier since they’ll have fewer choices to satisfy their offbeat fantasies.
Of course, catering to kinks such as BDSM or cosplay involves more preparation, and it’s often more tiring. But on the plus side, you’ll get to charge higher prices and earn more.
There are tons of niches out there. However, if you aren’t familiar with any or don’t know what’s in demand, you can check resources like our article on OnlyFans niche ideas.
Although it’s not exactly aimed at escorts, it’ll still show you what’s hot at the moment.
2. Dinner Date
A dinner date is precisely what it sounds like.
In this type of escorting, you’ll accompany clients to restaurants and provide a pleasant dining experience. After dinner, they’ll typically want to enjoy some alone time with you.
To be a successful dinner date, you’ll need to be a charming conversationalist and excel at dining etiquette.
Above all, it’s crucial to be an attentive listener, as clients who book these dates often just want to talk to a warm and compassionate person.
Sadly, these talks sometimes turn into bellyaching and then unloading their emotional baggage on you. As a result, they can be quite draining.
But if you can lend an ear without getting emotionally invested, you’ll get to enjoy perks such as delicious meals at upscale restaurants. And as a cherry on top, you’ll get paid for it!
3. Girlfriend Experience
Having all the best parts of a relationship — intimacy, connection, deep talks — without the quarrels and ugly break-ups is what the girlfriend experience is all about.
Unsurprisingly, this is one of the most popular services among clients. They’re not all weirdos who can’t get laid for free, however.
Although the aforementioned weirdos do exist, your typical customer will be either a wealthy businessman with no time for an actual relationship or a regular guy trapped in a loveless marriage.
Either way, if you play your role right, you’ll make money by doing what most people do for free: dating.
4. Party Escort
As the name suggests, a party escort is paid to attend parties and other social events. Clients hire them as their plus one for business dinners, family gatherings, weddings, and more.
Aside from having good looks, you’ll need to be outgoing, stylish, and fun-loving to succeed as a party escort. And since you’ll be dining in fine restaurants and other venues, table manners are a must.
However, if you’ve got what it takes, not only will you be paid for partying, but you’ll get to meet remarkable people and dine in style.
5. Travel Companion
If you’re a natural globetrotter with a taste for finer things, you might thrive as a travel escort. This line of work will allow you to visit the world’s top destinations free of charge — plus, you’ll get paid.
Not only that, but you’ll enjoy flying first-class and staying in 5-star hotels. Of course, it’s not tourism, so you’ll have to earn it.
At the very least, you’ll need to get used to packing and changing time zones on short notice. And even after an exhausting flight, you’ll be expected to look and act your best and be the sexy companion that your client desires.
But if you can handle all this, you’re in for invaluable experiences that most regular folks can only dream of.
6. Sugar Baby
Sugar babies differ from other escorts since they often have only one client, aka their sugar daddy.
And while it’s possible to juggle the sugar baby gig with other types of escorting, adjusting appointments and avoiding overlaps can be a hassle.
That being said, this line of work can bring you a lot of perks. Namely, if you score a generous patron, you’ll lack for nothing, and you won’t have to hustle and meet many clients each day.
Then again, once the sugar daddy stops using your service, finding a new one might be tough.
Do Escorts Really Make a Lot of Money?
Before you jump into becoming an escort, you’ll surely want to know if you’ll get your buck for the bang. In other words, is it true that professional escorts are rolling in dough?
The answer isn’t that simple. Namely, as with other adult workers, such as porn performers or cam models, escorts’ earnings are all over the map.
For example, an agency in Chicago charges $400 an hour. If we guess that they take a 30% cut, the escort walks away with $280.
On the flip side, a former escort, Samatha X, used to charge over $1,500 per hour while she was in the biz.
As a newbie, you’re more likely to score the former. But even then, you’re looking at $1,400 if you have a busy night and see five clients.
That’s exactly why many see escorting as a way to get quick cash. They keep the job until they save enough to buy a house or pay off their student debt and quit once they hit the mark.
On the other hand, some see it as a long-term career. They go into the business with the express goal of claiming their own piece of an extremely profitable market — and they succeed.
Whichever path you choose, make sure that it’s in line with your life goals. In any case, you can cash in your chips and get out at any point — you’re always in charge!
Incall or Outcall
The difference between incall and outcall escorting is the location where you provide your service.
With the former, the customers come to you. They can visit your home, an agency, or any other place you choose.
Conversely, outcall escorting involves visiting customers at their homes or other venues. Both have pros and cons.
For example, you may feel more at ease on your home turf. Plus, you can simply wait for the client to come to you, avoiding the trouble of traveling too far.
On the flip side, providing a distraction-free space at home can be a hassle. Besides, if you’re sharing your place with family or roommates, you’ll need to figure out an alternative space.
While an agency is a good choice, safety-wise, clients might have privacy concerns.
However, if you opt for the outbound model, all these problems are solved. Then again, some escorts don’t feel safe or comfortable going to a hotel room or someone else’s home.
Ultimately, the model you’ll go with is up to you to decide when you become an escort. Either way, make sure that your work doesn’t disrupt your private life or peace of mind.
Working With an Agency Vs. Going Solo
As an escort, you can either go solo or work for an agency. There’s no right or wrong choice here, and both come with the good and the not-so-good.
To help you weigh your options, we’ll lay out the pros and cons of each model.
The Pros and Cons of Escorting Agencies
Before applying for an agency, consider the following:
| pros | cons |
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The Pros and Cons of Solo Escorting
Here’s what to expect if you decide to go solo:
| pros | cons |
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With this info under your belt, you’ll be able to choose the model that works for you. Now, let’s get practical.
How to Become an Escort
Becoming an escort won’t work the same for everyone, and there’s no all-purpose recipe to follow.
You might start out with an agency and go solo later or do both at the same time. It’s up to you to figure out how to be an escort in a way that suits your lifestyle and career goals.
That’s why we’ll go through the most common steps you’ll need to take with both approaches.
How to Become an Escort With an Agency
The application process might look different depending on the agency you apply for. But here’s what you can expect in general.
1. Find a Reputable Agency
Since your working conditions will depend on your employer, choose wisely.
Before everything else, look for businesses that have been around for a while. If the agency just popped on the market, chances are they still don’t have a large client pool.
You can also google the agency and try to find reviews, or even better, reach out to the agency directly.
Some of the questions (aside from the pay) you’ll want them to answer are:
- Do they respect employees’ boundaries?
- How thoroughly do they screen their clients?
- Do they provide assistance in case of issues?
- Do they handle your transportation in case of outcalls?
Any respectable agency will be transparent and answer your questions in detail. If they don’t, keep looking.
2. Fill in the Application Form
Once you find an agency worth applying for, there’ll typically be an online application form.
As the first step, you’ll be asked to provide your real or stage name (or both). You’ll also need to specify the city you’re based in, your age, and contact info.
In addition, many agencies will require you to disclose your height and weight, as well as your body measurements.
On top of that, there’s often a Tell Us About Yourself section where you get to talk yourself up. You can write about your hobbies, interests, personality traits, and anything else to make your application more appealing.
3. Take Professional Photos
With most application forms, you’ll need to attach non-nude photos.
Now, don’t just take a few selfies in your bathroom — hire a professional. Not only will a pro photographer know how to highlight your finest features, but you’ll also come off as a serious candidate.
And, of course, dress to impress! Stay away from your grandma’s cardigan and go with a sexy yet classy get-up.
4. Slay the Interview
Hopefully, after a few days, you’ll get an invitation for a face-to-face interview.
These usually take place in cafés or hotels, and for the sake of discretion, you’re expected not to bring any company or post about it on social media.
And just like with any job interview, it pays to do your homework. So, check the agency’s website and learn their requirements and other relevant info in advance.
Most agencies have a FAQ page that’ll clarify everything you need to know. First impressions last, so prepare well, and you’ll be one step closer to landing a job.
5. Onboarding
If everything goes well and you pass the interview, you’ll likely undergo on-the-job training in some form.
This part can vary in length and content, but in most cases, you’ll get to learn more about the agency’s rules and receive tips that will guide you during your first days at work.
Finally, they’ll set up your first appointment — typically a client suitable for newcomers.
During this time, don’t hesitate to reach out and ask any questions. After all, their job is to guide you and help out along the way.
How to Become an Escort Independently
If you decide to go solo, the process is less linear compared to applying for an agency. There are different ways of doing it, so you’ll need to figure out what works best for you.
To help you out with that, here’s how most independent escorts tend to get started.
1. Post an Ad on an Escort Directory
Many escorts use directories to connect with clients. Since these aren’t employers, there’s no real application process.
All you have to do is sign up, post an ad, and wait for customers to contact you. As long as you follow the site’s rules, you’ll be able to advertise on it.
Notably, most directories don’t allow promoting sexual services, neither directly nor using code words.
Also, the photos you post can’t contain any sexual content. So, save the kitty pics and nips for your clients.
As if that wasn’t enough, directories have another major perk. Namely, they’ll let you keep all of your earnings.
That being said, you’ll need to pay a monthly subscription to keep your ad listed. For example, a directory called AdultSearch will charge you $19.99 a month to post your ads.
2. Start a Website
While directory ads serve their purpose, a personal website designed specifically for you will elevate your brand and simplify your day-to-day tasks.
In particular, creating a bio page will help you talk yourself up and forge an attractive persona that your clients will be dying to meet. And of course, you’ll want to post alluring pics and videos to seal the deal.
On a practical note, you can use it to manage your booking and schedule. You can also list your do’s and don’ts somewhere on your website to clarify what your services include and what they don’t.
If you’re into fancy gifts, you can add links to wishlist services such as Giftful or Luxylist. Also, creating an Amazon wish list is a popular and free option.
Through these, clients can buy you presents and spoil you with spa treatments, extravagant dinners, clothing and jewelry, and other luxuries.
Finally, an escort website can help you branch out and rake in extra cash. You can use it to sell your sex tapes, nudes, and all kinds of homemade smut.
That sure is a lot of benefits, but how do you make it happen? Basically, there are two options: building it from scratch and using a template.
If you go with the former and don’t know how to code, you’ll either have to learn or hire a web designer and developer. Clearly, the process can be costly or time-consuming, depending on what you decide.
On the other hand, using a template will save you time and money. Namely, ready-made themes like ModelX are affordable, fuss-free, and have pretty much everything you’ll need.
3. Promote Your Brand
Many escorts use social media to drive traffic to their ads or websites. For example, Twitter (or X) is a popular choice since it allows NSFW content.
You can promote your business there by posting alluring pics with hashtags such as #sexworker or #escort. Also, add a link to the page where they can contact you and book appointments in the bio section.
That way, anyone who likes what they see will be able to get it — and generously compensate you.
Instagram can serve the same purpose, but you’ll need to be more careful since it doesn’t allow adult content.
So, post sexy (but not too sexy) pics, and keep them subtle to avoid a ban. Don’t use explicit hashtags for the same reason.
Instead, hint at your service with hashtags such as #date+location. For example, if you’re based in New York City, one of your hashtags can be #datenyc.
Finally, add your website URL to a link tool such as Linktree, then paste that link into your bio. That way, you won’t risk having Instagram censor or restrict your content.
Similarly, Reddit doesn’t allow advertising any physical services.
However, you can post sexy pics and hint at what you do on subreddits such as r/Sexsells. From there, get people to contact you by adding your Linktree to your bio.
In the end, whichever platforms you choose, never access them on your private phone. If you do, your page might be suggested to your friends and family since social media apps like to snoop through your contacts.
So, having a device for business purposes only will prevent you from being outed as an escort to your personal contacts.
4. Screen Your Clients and Get a Deposit
Once a client books an appointment, it’s time for a safety check. Since there’s no agency to do it for you, screening potential customers for any red flags is your job.
There are different ways to go about it, but it’s common practice to ask them to provide a photo ID, work email, and/or LinkedIn profile.
The idea is to get as much info as possible, crosscheck it, and keep an eye out for any hiccups or glitches.
If the client refuses or anything seems fishy, feel free to ditch the deal. Your safety and comfort always come first, after all.
On the other hand, if everything checks out, you can proceed to arrange the date. However, you should always ask for a deposit of at least 50%.
And once you meet a client, insist on being paid in full before you even lift a finger. That way, you can avoid wasting your time if they end up not having money or won’t pay you.
5. Handle the Payments
At last, let’s talk about the best part — getting paid. As you won’t have an agency to handle it, you’ll have to figure out how to receive payments on your own.
The most obvious and hassle-free option is cash. But since you’ll need to handle deposits, plus most people don’t go around with pockets full of paper nowadays, you’ll need to consider other payment methods as well.
The second most obvious choice, PayPal, isn’t the best since you may end up with a frozen account if they get a whiff of any exchange revolving around sex or adult services.
Luckily, there are loads of options out there, including:
You can use some or all of these or find alternatives that fit your business. Either way, they’ll get the job done.
Tips for Escorts
Finally, we’ll share some tips to help you get started and get the most out of your escort career.
1. Create an Escort Persona
Escorts and spies have a lot in common. Both live exciting lives, use all kinds of nifty gadgets, and attend exclusive parties with martinis shaken, not stirred.
Most importantly, both put on a front.
That’s not to say that being an escort means living a lie. You can still let your true colors shine through.
But you should come up with an enticing persona, to lure and lock in clients. That persona can and should be based on your actual qualities, but you’ve also got to give the customers what they want.
Besides, by creating this fantasy alter ego that’s equal parts sexy and classy, you’ll attract the right kind of clients — ones that treat you like a queen and splurge on you.
Speaking of spies, you’ll also need to come up with a stage name. You should never use your real name unless you want everyone and their horndog to know about your business.
Whether you work for an agency or as an independent escort, use this stage name on your website, work-related social media, in ads, and during all communication with clients.
You can choose whatever name you like, but make sure it’s not too similar to what other escorts in your area are using. After all, the point is to stand out and be memorable.
2. Set Your Boundaries
As lucrative as it is, at the end of the day, escorting is a job like any other. You’ll be in it to make money, not partake in acts you can’t stand.
Remember, your body, your rules.
So, establish your boundaries from the get-go, and communicate them clearly. You can specify the services that you offer and list your do’s and don’ts on your escort directory profile, escort agency profile, or website.
Also, be respectful but firm, and never let a client overstep your boundaries. And if this sometimes means losing a customer — good riddance!
No money is worth endangering your well-being and mental health.
3. Learn to Say No
On a similar note, don’t be afraid to say no.
Whether you’re a solo escort or an agency employee, you always have the right to refuse anything that you don’t want to do.
If a client gives you a bad feeling, it’s always better to opt out of the appointment. Even if your hunch is wrong, it may prevent you from providing a good service, which would be bad for your rep.
And even if you’re already on a date, don’t hesitate to call it off at any moment if that’s best for you and your peace of mind.
4. Safety First
Living dangerously sounds fun and all, but in the world of escorting, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Now, that doesn’t mean that danger lurks behind every corner. As long as you (or your agency) screen each client before the first date, there’s no need to worry.
Still, you should plan for the worst-case scenario. At the very least, keep that phone handy, just in case you need to dial for help in an emergency.
As an extra precaution, you can carry pepper spray if it’s legal in your area, or other safety items, such as a personal alarm keychain. You never know what might happen, but being prepared makes all the difference.
5. Health Matters
Another thing you’ll have to protect is your health. That means no rawbacking, ever!
Always use condoms, and check clients’ genitals and mouth for any irregularities. If you see anything suspicious, decline all physical intimacy.
If they ask you to do anything without a condom — refuse. If they keep pushing it, end the date.
And if you feel like stepping away would end up lowering your profits, just think of all the money you’ll save on medical bills.
Just as importantly, you should get tested for STDs every eight weeks. After all, a healthy escort is a happy escort!
6. Hygiene Matters
As a reputable escort, you’ll be expected to look and smell amazing at all times. At the very least, that means showering and brushing your teeth before meeting clients.
If you’re doing an outcall, prepare a bag with necessities such as wet wipes, mints, deodorant, toothbrushes, and toothpaste.
As for downstairs grooming, whether you’ll shave, wax, or rock a full bush is up to you. As long as you’re fresh and clean, you’re good to go.
And just like you’ll have to take care of your hygiene, you’ll have the right to expect the same from clients.
You don’t need to put up with B.O. and funk, so don’t hesitate to ask them to shower and brush their teeth if needed. Be subtle about it, though.
For example, say that you didn’t have time to take a shower before the date and suggest that they join you there. Bonus points if you do it seductively.
Then, proceed to brush your teeth, and hand them a spare toothbrush. That way, you can get a client to clean up without offending them — and even end up having some fun in the shower.
7. Dress for Sexess
Being a grade-A escort requires looking the part. Dress like a princess, and clients will treat you like one.
That’s why you’ll want to invest in a classy and sexy wardrobe. Look for quality clothes that suit your body type and accentuate your best features.
This may seem costly at first, but since you’ll likely attend luxury parties and other social events, consider it an investment rather than an expense.
If you look like a million dollars, you might earn it — and much more!
8. Become Good With Words
It’s important that you walk the walk, but can you talk the talk?
As we mentioned already, escorts sell companionship. And while that sometimes includes sex, it always includes conversation.
That’s why your job is to be charming and intellectually stimulating company during dates, trips, and especially social events.
Don’t worry; you won’t need to have the IQ of Asia Carrera or talk about rocket science. You’ve just got to learn how to make clients feel comfy and excited in your presence.
That starts by being an active listener and showing empathy. Just as importantly, be mindful of social cues, especially if you’re attending events.
Also, a good sense of humor and having interesting things to say can spice up any conversation. So, invest time into exciting hobbies, read from time to time, and stay updated on current events.
If you make them truly enjoy your company, you’ll gain long-term, loyal customers who’ll be more than happy to spoil you rotten.
9. Separate Your Heart and Mind
As we mentioned earlier, you don’t need to be a rocket scientist to be a professional escort. However, emotional intelligence is a must.
We say this because you’ll meet all kinds of people in the biz. Some will be awesome, others — not so much.
And while you can always turn down creeps and weirdos, you’ll sometimes deal with boring, overbearing, or needy clients.
Some of them will use you as an outlet for their frustrations and complain about this and that. And while it’s all part of the gig, it can get draining.
That’s why it’s crucial to stay chill and not allow things to get to you. Remember, work is just work, so don’t let it mess with your personal life.
Also, if a client grows a bit too attached and starts pushing the boundaries of professionalism, it’s time to give them the boot.
10. Diversify Your Gig
As an escort, there’s no need to stick to just one line of work, especially in the beginning.
The adult industry has a lot to offer. For example, when you become an escort, you can moonlight as a porn performer or start an OnlyFans as a way to get extra cash, but also to gain followers.
The idea is to turn a portion of these followers into customers in your escort business. Other popular side gigs are selling nudes, foot fetish modeling, being a cam model, and more.
Final Thoughts
Now that you’re equipped with the necessary info and have an idea of how to become an escort, the ball’s in your court. It’s time to get it rolling!
Set up your gig, perfect your service, and before long, you’ll enjoy the fruits of your labor and live the high life you deserve.
