How does everyone screen their clients? I've heard many ways, from accepting appointments and seeing how it will work out to full background checks. Things have changed over the 27 years I have been a pro, and I was a late adopter of deposits, but I'm not returning to new clients without a deposit.

I have two important elements when I talk to a potential client. I always interact with a new client in a polite, business tone, just the same as booking a table at a restaurant or an appointment at a salon. It is crucial that I know they are making the appointment with a clear head. I cannot stress how important this is for a first meeting. After the client is a known quantity, sure, we can communicate in Mistress/Slave mode.

The second thing I am looking for is someone who can respect boundaries. I can be flexible in considering seeing someone outside of my normal hours, for example, if it's really the only time they can see me. If, however, it keeps going, I know it does not stop. At best, they will be an annoying client, and at worst, well. . .

It seems simple, but strictly sticking to these criteria has kept me safe for years.

The last time I had a problem was when I took a new client last minute who was in a "subspace" state of mind. He could not communicate and got violent when it wasn't going the way he wanted. Fortunately, I was able to kick him out before something happened, but it was scary. I won't deviate again.

I have a similar method as well.

To add, I would use verify him or similar blacklist sites. However in this day and age some desperate dommes will abuse blacklisting sites in an attempt to keep the client to themselves. So it may be a moot to use this method. But If they provide a reference it kinda helps.

I personally make my clients fill out my form and force them to provide a form of ID with a selfie. My form makes it easy for them to provide a deposit in conjunction. Then there is light communication until the day of the appointment reminding them of what to expect. I find forms to be an interesting way to weed incompetent or problematic clients. There will be idiots who will default to writing essays in my inbox and when I direct them to my form its crickets.

The problematic newbie is a scary scenario, I wouldn't be surprised if they get their deranged ideas from social media. Sorry to hear about your scary experience.

I agree with the sentiment about social media, porn, and movies in general. It is not that I have so much wrong with them, but that people need to understand that they are not reality.

Interesting about the ID and selfie. Is that common in the US? There is no way I could do that here. The French don't follow laws like in the US, but seeing as we have the Nordic Model here, I don't know anyone who would expose themselves like that.

Also agreed about a good form and in-form deposit capability. I do not want someone who cannot follow simple instructions in my dungeon.

Exactly!

Yes in the US it's common to request clients to provide a selfie with ID. However I can't speak on the behalf of everyone. This provides some level of protection, if the client were to become troublesome.

The US is in the stone age in regards to progressive laws, so we have to find creative ways to screen. I wish the US would adopt the Nordic Model already.

Indeed!

Oh, I am not a fan at all of the Nordic Model. It is supposed to protect the sex worker by criminalizing the client. Just leave us alone already. France has really weird laws.

I use a screening form which I have found does weeds out time wasters. I can also see it being a deterrent in some ways, but it is My preferred way to screen. I charge a processing fee that I ask to be sent in order to start the review.

I've also asked for photo ID and verification photo (selfie holding something with today's date). Although, I have since stopped asking people to send their IDs because some would send with ALL of their info even though I asked them to redact some of the PPI. I would let then know that all I needed was to see their photos, name, and DOB, but people would still send the IDs with all their info on full display.

I ask for references, but I will only reach out to a provider I don't know as very last resort. It is very rare that I receive a message back from another Domme when I let them know I'm conducting a screening. It is a shame but (as mentioned) I honestly don't know if I would trust another Domme's reporting, especially if I don't know them-- this profession can get possessive (not all, of course but I've seen things).

Some other methods I've exercised:
2-step call to location
Employee call verification
Review sites (Date-check, TER, Mr. Number, VerifyHer)
SM checks - Twitter, FB, Linked-in (I created a separate Linked-in account because Linked-in reports who's viewed your account)

My form asks for a number of things, so it will depend on what they provide. Once I'm done reviewing I'll call them to let them know they've been approved or if I need more info. That phone call lends a lot of information too, but whatever feelings I get from talking to them is based on instinct.

If they are a NEWBIE the biggest things for Me are the verification photo, email and phone number.

If anyone is interested in seeing My application, it is on My website but if you DM Me I will send you the link directly.

.02

RE: References
On the other hand, I have heard some Dommes respectful decline providing references because they wouldn't want to be held liable if the client decides to go ape shit. To Me, this is an understandable stance to take, so I'm not offended if I don't hear back about a referral.

I still get asked for references from NYC. I don't feel comfortable referring clients I saw 15 years ago. I get reference requests for clients who use completely different contact information/names. I get reference requests for clients I haven't even seen.

I want to help, but a lot of times I can't

Mr number app. Best investment I ever made.

I also ask for ID or social media with pic and name

I used to use mr.number. This one is pretty good. I think a lot of women are using 1 800 notes since it's free. Mr.number isn't anymore. It being summer the nuts come out of the woodwork in FL. This morning in the time it takes me to make a cup of coffee from my Keurig. I had multiple texts from this number identified themselves as Rene. Blocked as a pest.
https://800notes.com/Phone.aspx/1-641-260-7149