Navigating Review Culture as a Sensual Massage Provider

As a sensual massage provider, I have chosen to allow reviews from my clients. However, I also recognize the inherent toxicity that often accompanies review culture. In this blog, I delve into the reasons behind my decision to welcome reviews and the importance of understanding and mitigating the negative aspects of review culture.

The History of Review Culture in Sex Work

Review culture in the sphere of sex work has been mostly, negative. TER (The Erotic Review) a US based review board, allows users to post and read reviews of escort services and providers. The site has had its share of controversy over the years, particularly related to its founder, David Elms.

David Elms, the original founder of TER, faced legal issues and controversies during his tenure as the head of the website. In 2010, he was arrested and charged with attempted extortion and conspiracy to commit extortion. Elms was accused of trying to extort money from a specific escort whom he threatened to post negative reviews about on his website unless she paid him a sum of money. He was subsequently convicted in 2012 and sentenced to several years in prison.

In addition to his legal troubles, David Elms was criticized for the nature of the website itself. TER and similar review sites have faced criticism from sex workers and advocates who argue that these platforms can facilitate harmful practices, including the spread of false information, harassment, and endangerment of sex workers' safety. Some sex workers have expressed concerns that the reviews can be manipulated, leading to negative repercussions for their livelihood and personal safety.

Working as a Black Woman in the Sex Industry

As a Black woman and sensual massage provider in sex work, I am acutely aware of the extra effort required from me to gain trust in a society where stereotypes and biases persist. I strive to break down preconceived notions through professionalism, open communication, and an unwavering commitment to creating a safe and inclusive space. By building a body of authentic reviews, it shows I provide a quality experience. Through genuine connections and constructive feedback, I strive to dismantle barriers and foster trust, proving that my dedication to excellence knows no bounds.

I understand the toxicity that review culture may bring, but I also recognize the need for some clients to vet providers before investing in their services. For Black women, both within and outside of the sex industry, this vetting is evidenced to be more extensive, in comparison to our Caucasian counterparts.

Reviews

By embracing reviews, I am also building a community of trust among my clients. Potential clients can read the experiences of others, helping them make informed decisions about choosing my services. Honest and positive reviews serve as testimonials that contribute to a strong, reliable reputation in the industry. While reviews can be beneficial, it is essential to recognize the potential toxicity that may arise in review culture. Negative reviews, whether justified or not, can significantly impact a business or individual. Additionally, the anonymity of online platforms can lead to malicious or unfair reviews, affecting the morale and mental well-being of providers.

Mitigating Negative Influences

I have witnessed first hand how clients can destroy a sex workers reputation with reviews and it’s NOT right. Above all, we are humans and every exchange will be different. It is essential to note that we often feed off of the energies that our clients present to us, so being respectful will often be met with respect shown back towards the client.

As a sensual masseuse, I recognize the value of reviews in fostering trust, transparency, and continuous improvement in my practice. By allowing clients to share their experiences openly, I build a community of trust and accountability, contributing to a strong and reliable reputation. However, I am also mindful of the potential toxicity that can accompany review culture and its impact on emotional well-being. By cultivating resilience, prioritizing personal growth, and setting guidelines for reviews, I create a safe and supportive space for clients to provide constructive feedback. Ultimately, the journey of embracing review culture is about striking a balance between the benefits of transparency and the need to mitigate the negative influences, ensuring a fulfilling and empowering experience for both clients and myself.