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Dancer Resources & Career Guide

Here Are The Basics

Becoming a successful dancer requires a mix of skill, strategy, and financial awareness. From obtaining a license and improving performance skills to managing your finances and staying safe, this guide will help you navigate the industry. Below, we cover the basics you need to know, including pole dance training, customer interactions, and money management.

Dancer Career & Business Guide

Licensing & Legal Requirements

  • Atlanta-Specific Licensing – Strippers must obtain a permit from the Atlanta Police Department License and Permit Unit.
  • Application Process – Requires a background check, fingerprinting, and payment of fees. Applications must be submitted in person, Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM.
  • Required Documents – A notarized letter of employment from the club where you will be working is mandatory.
  • Location
    Atlanta Public Safety Annex
    3493 Donald Lee Hollowell Pkwy NW
    Atlanta, GA 30331
  • More Information – Visit Atlanta Police Department for licensing details.

 

How to Interact with Customers

Developing strong customer interaction skills is essential for maximizing earnings and building long-term clientele. Here are practical strategies based on insights from Bad Bitch Academy and Racks to Riches to help you increase your income while maintaining control of your time and energy.

1. Start Genuine Conversations

The best way to get a customer to spend is by making them feel comfortable. Conversations should be engaging but strategic.

  • Ask Open-Ended Questions – Instead of “Are you having fun?” or “Do you want a dance?” ask “When’s the last time you did something just for fun, no plans, just whatever happens, happens?” or “”Alright, first impression—what kind of person do you think I am?””What’s a conspiracy theory you lowkey believe?” This gets them talking about themselves, which helps you gauge their mood and spending potential.
  • Keep the Vibe Positive – Customers come to escape their everyday stress, not hear about yours. Avoid personal problems, negativity, or controversial topics. Keep things light and engaging.
  • Know When to Move On – If a customer is unresponsive or uninterested, do not waste time trying to force a conversation. Your time is money, and someone else in the club is ready to spend it.

2. Identify Customers Who Are Willing to Spend

Not every customer is worth your time. Learn to differentiate between those who are there to watch and those who are there to spend.

  • Signs of a High-Spender:
    • Orders top-shelf liquor or multiple rounds
    • Has their own section
    • Engages with multiple dancers
    • Throws money on stage without hesitation
  • Approach With Confidence – A strong, confident approach lets them know you are worth their time and money. Compliment their style or energy, not just their wallet.

3. Increase Spending by Focusing on Sections and Repeat Clients

A customer in a reserved section has already committed to spending. Your job is to keep them spending.

  • Leverage Section Reservations – Customers who book sections have already set aside money for their experience. Help them justify their spending by making them feel like they are getting an exclusive experience.
  • Turn One-Timers Into Regulars – Customers will return to the club for dancers they feel a connection with. Remember their name, favorite drinks, and interests. Small details build loyalty.
  • Encourage Group Spending – If a customer is with friends, create a competitive atmosphere where they try to outspend each other. The more they flex, the more they spend.

4. Use Industry Resources to Improve Your Hustle

The best dancers stay ahead by learning from those who are already successful.

  • Racks to Riches – A resource offering business strategies and industry insights for dancers.
  • Bad Bitch Academy – Focuses on branding, customer engagement, and financial growth.
  • Network With Other Dancers – Learning from others in the industry helps improve your approach and earnings.

Additional resources:

5. Adapt and Evolve to Stay Successful

The most successful dancers treat their career like a business.

  • Stay Informed – Customer behavior changes, club dynamics shift, and trends evolve. Pay attention and adjust accordingly.
  • Get Constructive Feedback – Watch how the highest-earning dancers operate. Observe their sales techniques and body language.
  • Adjust Your Strategy When Needed – If something isn’t working, change it. Adaptability is key to long-term success.

By applying these strategies, you will maximize your earnings, create a loyal customer base, and avoid wasting time on customers who are not there to spend. Success in the industry is about understanding customer psychology, presenting yourself effectively, and maintaining control over your environment.

Psychology Hacks for Better Customer Engagement

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Pole Dance Classes & Mentorship

– **In-Person Training (Atlanta):**
– [Pink Poles Studios](https://pinkpolesstudios.com/) – Beginner-friendly pole dance classes.
– [PoleLaTeaz](https://polelateaz.com/) – Aerial and sensual dance fitness.
– [Secret Garden Pole Fitness](https://sgpole.com/) – Pole, lyra, twerk, and private training.
– **Online Training:**
– [OpenDance Academy](https://opendance.academy/) – Online pole dance courses.
– [Demi Barre YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/c/DemiBarre) – Free tutorials.
– **Mentorship:**
– [Yung Pole Master](https://www.instagram.com/yungpolemaster/) – Industry mentorship.

Financial Literacy for Dancers

– **Separate Business & Personal Finances** – Use a **business checking account** for tracking income.
– **Save for Taxes & Retirement** – Independent contractors should set aside **25-30% for taxes**.
– **Best High-Yield Savings Accounts:**
– **[American Express Savings](https://www.americanexpress.com/)** – No fees, competitive interest.
– **[Capital One 360](https://www.capitalone.com/)** – High APY, online banking convenience.
– **[Chime Savings](https://www.chime.com/)** – No fees, early paycheck deposits, auto-save options.

Safety & Mental Health

– **Know Club Security Policies** – Always have a **buddy system** for safety.
– **Stay Physically & Mentally Healthy** – Take breaks, **avoid burnout**, and use emotional boundaries.
– **Mental Health Support:**
– [Pineapple Support](https://pineapplesupport.org/) – Free & low-cost mental health services.
– [SWOP Behind Bars](https://swopbehindbars.org/) – Advocacy & harm reduction resources.

Events & Networking

– **StripperWeb Forums** – Online dancer community & club reviews.
– **Dancer Resource Events** – Industry networking, legal rights info, and mentorship.
– **Eventbrite** – Lists dancer meetups & training events.