Choose your name!

The first thing is choosing a stage name! Find something that falls off the tongue and is unique. Choose your number one option, but have a plan b, too. If a club already has a dancer with your name, you’ll have to use another one.

Find clubs in your area

Start by searching for clubs in your area on Google. Read reviews, visit websites, and check out photos to get a feel for each venue. Then, give the clubs a call to ask when auditions are held. Some clubs offer drop-in auditions throughout the week, while others will direct you to a booking line. Be sure to inquire about any specific legal identification requirements. You’ll always need your ID, but some clubs may also ask for your social security card or a work permit.

Next, pack a duffle bag with everything you might need. Make sure to bring a lock for your locker. For your audition, you’ll typically need a thong, a bikini or bra, and heels (many clubs require them). If you have a few sexy outfits, bring those along as well. Don’t forget essentials like baby wipes, deodorant, a hairbrush, perfume, chapstick, and hand sanitizer—these items will save you more times than you can count. Keep the smaller items organized in a makeup bag for easy access.

Get your ‘getup’!

Pleaser is one of the top brands for dancer shoes, and I highly recommend choosing shoes made specifically for dancers. These shoes are designed to withstand the demands of dancing, offering better support than regular heels, which can break or cause discomfort over time. Some dancers prefer boots over sandals, and others like taller heels versus shorter ones. For beginners, I recommend starting with 7-inch Pleasers, as the heel-to-ball ratio is less steep compared to the 6-inch style. It’s wise to start with a more affordable pair, and once you figure out what works for you, you can splurge on a higher-end pair.

When it comes to your appearance, do your hair and makeup, and keep your nails tidy. While fake nails or eyelashes aren’t necessary, looking put together is key. Avoid using glitter, as it can look messy and distract from your overall presentation. Take a shower, and consider shaving (optional, but many customers prefer it). However, DO NOT use lotion! Lotion can make the pole slippery, which is dangerous for both you and other dancers.

Lastly, accessorize to add your personal style. Avoid wearing rings or necklaces, but earrings, bracelets, and anklets can add a nice touch without getting in the way of your performance.

Time to rock it! 

You’ve made it to the audition! Confidently tell them your name (stage name!) and that you’re here to audition. They will have you sign a contract before or after your audition. Normally it states the club is not liable if you get injured, you won’t do anything illegal, etc.

They’ll take you to a dressing room to get ready, as you walk through look at the other dancers and see what they’re wearing. Wear whatever outfit you have that seems to fit the club setting and that you can move easily in.

The dance part is scary! Use that energy! It’s not a requirement to know pole tricks, however they are beneficial. In some cities pole tricks are a must, but in others, floorwork is more popular. The key is to be confident and seductive.

If you think you’re moving slowly, move slower.

At a fully nude club, take your top off during the beginning of the first song, and your bottoms off during the second. If someone puts money on your stage, come over and give them some attention. Shake your butt in their face, chat for a second, introduce yourself, and do a 5-second grind on their lap. Whatever you have time for, make them remember you!

Next, you’ll find out if you’re hired. If not, that’s ok! You may be a talented dancer but maybe you just aren’t what they’re looking for. If hired, this is where you’ll go over the schedule, prices, fees, rules, etc. Don’t be afraid to ask questions!

Club Fees

Every club charges fees, and they vary from place to place. Some clubs require you to give them all the money you earn until you pay off your fees, while others let you pay after your shift. In some cases, if you can’t pay upfront, the club will add those fees to your next shift. Essentially, you’re renting space at the club. While there’s always a standard house fee, clubs may tack on additional fees, such as a drop-in fee, late fee, early leave fee, or even higher fees on weekends.

In addition to the house fee, some clubs also take a cut from each private dance. Keep in mind that in most states, dancers are considered independent contractors, not employees. This means you won’t receive benefits like medical coverage, sick days, 401k, or workers’ compensation. It’s also essential to save for your own taxes, as they won’t be automatically deducted.

Congratulations, and I hope you secure your bag! Remember, don’t let rude people bring you down—whether it’s club staff or customers. You are beautiful and unique, and you should never be ashamed of that!

*Note: This information reflects the perspective of a dancer in Oregon. Requirements may vary by state, such as rules about wearing double pairs of underwear, pasties, and other regulations.

Interested in what manners are needed at a strip club? Click on Wisteria’s other blog on the subject HERE