Social media has changed all parts of life. Apps such as Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat and TikTok have become the ‘go to’ for getting a look into different lifestyles and situations. The strip club industry is no different. Furthermore, phrases such as ’StripTok’ have become well known outside of the industry, as well as within. Dancers are boosting their incomes-and raising their profiles-with the use of these websites and apps. It’s pretty hard to ignore the impact stripping and social media is having on the industry as a whole, and society’s view of the industry.
Selling Content
People are now wise to the power of the influencer and the huge amounts of money involved in this field. Sponsorships, featured posts and content for sale are very lucrative. Business models previously relied on footfall and a business limited to a certain area. The world wide web now provides a potential audience of billions. There are no limits on location and market options. Sites such as OnlyFans and Admireme.VIP provide platforms for those in the adult industry to promote and sell subscriptions for their videos, pictures and access to the influencer. ‘Glamour modelling’, as it used to be known, was previously tied to tabloid newspapers and men’s magazines. There are no longer limits in who can provide, and who can consume, anymore. Performers do very well incorporating strip clubs with selling content. It provides great marketing, and can bring in a ready made audience, looking for chances to get closer and have a more intimate experience. This can come with risks, however, so there are some very serious elements to consider when entering this field.
The importance of online safety with stripping and social media
Social media can be a great promotional tool, but it can also be a dangerous entity. The potential for a massive audience also means less control over who has access to your information. Unfortunately, there is still a really long way to go when it comes to violent crimes against women and abusive situations. Stalking can be a very scary experience. Many legal systems are just not equipped to tackle it, as it stands. Most require the situation to escalate into something physical before any real action can be taken. The tireless campaigning of a variety of women’s groups and organisations have led to some movement on the matter. However, personal accountability is important until we reach a safer society.
Sharing information about where you live, such as the town or your home address is strongly discouraged. Using gift options on shopping sites can allow clients to buy gifts, without sharing your personal information. Some dancers use social media to advertise their club location. If sharing where you are working that night, make sure the club will provide an escort to and from your car. It is strongly advised that you engage with security on arrival and leaving the venue. Additionally, only accept lifts from trusted providers or people you know. Whilst this can be a great way to pull in a captive audience, it does carry risk. Sharing your location can be dangerous if not executed correctly, so careful consideration is VERY important.
Customer facing accounts and personal information
Many performers create total separation between their club and online persona and their personal life. Utilising a ‘work’ page that isn’t linked to your name is a smart move. When adding friends from work, be mindful of the algorithm and how that works with their potential behaviour online. Some dancers are very open about their online profile. Consequently, your boundaries could vary from theirs. Some dancers refuse to interact with any clientele and some allow regulars to follow them. Finally, some are complete open books. If you are more private, be aware that making social media friends with a more public dancer can lead to your account being recommended to anyone. You could have customers try to add your personal accounts after befriending a work colleague. If you don’t want to crop up unexpectedly, only add work people on a work account.
Is stripping and social media for me?
Whether you decide to take stripping online is a very personal choice. You should remember that when something is on the internet, it’s there forever. Stigma is very real within our industry and hard to escape. Things are slowly becoming more acceptable, but we aren’t there yet. You need to weigh up impact on familial relationships, future job prospects and if your personal situation is safe to share. Once you have established that, are you safe on a practical level if you mix stripping and social media? Does your club and local law enforcement allow online engagement? Some licensing bodies consider any communication with clients outside the club soliciting. If this is the case, are you willing to take the risk of a criminal record? Work smart, protect yourself and don’t take unnecessary risks. You matter and your safety is important. Your accessibility can massively increase your earning potential, but, stripping and social media should never be at the cost of your security and wellbeing.
