How to Know If You Should Become a Stripper

X

This article is co-authored by a team of editors and trained researchers who confirm the accuracy and completeness of the article.

The wikiHow Content Management team carefully monitors the work of editors to ensure that every article is up to a high standard of quality.

This article has been viewed 8,417 times.

Contrary to popular belief, not every stripper is a beautiful young woman. In fact, strippers range in age from 18-50 years old, with different body types and shapes. If you want to become a stripper but aren’t sure if this path is right for you, there are a few things to consider carefully before deciding.

Table of Contents

Understand the requirements of the profession

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/1/1a/Decide-if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-1-Version-2.jpg/v4- 728px-Decide-if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-1-Version-2.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/1/1a/ Decide-if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-1-Version-2.jpg/v4-728px-Decide-if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-1-Version-2. jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

You need to be in good health. It is often misunderstood that you need to have a “perfect” body to be a stripper. In fact, strippers can have a variety of body types, shapes, and sizes. However, your health needs to ensure a certain level to meet the requirements of the job. Dancing consumes a lot of energy, not to mention you have to wear high heels so it will be even more difficult! So you have to be prepared for the physical demands of a stripper career. ^{[1] X Research Source}

You don’t necessarily have to have dancing skills or experience to get started. You can watch other girls perform to get an idea of what you have to do.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/4/43/Decide-if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-2-Version-2.jpg/v4- 728px-Decide-if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-2-Version-2.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/4/43/ Decide-if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-2-Version-2.jpg/v4-728px-Decide-if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-2-Version-2. jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,”bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Be aware of the amount of time that needs to be invested. In the beginning, you may have to work every night to make a name for yourself and get back the money you invested in this profession. You also have to adjust to the pace of your life to get used to working late at night, which can make daytime work really difficult.

You won’t succeed overnight, especially when you have to get used to standing on stage while doing private dances. It takes time to decide whether to pursue a career as a stripper, and see how successful you can be.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/8/8a/Decide-if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-3.jpg/v4-728px-Decide- if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-3.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/8/8a/Decide-if-You-Should- Become-a-Stripper-Step-3.jpg/v4-728px-Decide-if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-3.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,” bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Maintaining sobriety is important. Many dancers fall victim to the temptations of alcohol and drugs in strip clubs, and end up spending all their hard-earned money on them. You may also be in danger of being drunk at work. You need to think and react quickly if you want to keep yourself safe and to get paid for your performance. ^{[2] X Research Source}

There are dancers who can drink a few glasses of alcohol while working without getting drunk, or occasionally use drugs and still not become addicted. Even so, this is still risky behavior, and if you are a prone person there is a risk of developing alcohol or drug addiction.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/1/1e/Decide-if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-4.jpg/v4-728px-Decide- if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-4.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/1/1e/Decide-if-You-Should- Become-a-Stripper-Step-4.jpg/v4-728px-Decide-if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-4.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,” bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

What do you do when your audience rejects you? Strippers do not always receive money from the audience. There will be some people who don’t find you attractive, or flatly refuse when you approach. As a stripper, you need to “sell” yourself to make money, so you have to be thick-skinned to succeed, just like in a real business. ^{[3] X Research Sources}

Some patrons can also be rude. As with any other profession, you will have to deal with people who are not very likable, but as a stripper you will have to deal with them in a much more intimate and vulnerable setting. Remember to prepare yourself mentally for that.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/7/74/Decide-if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-5.jpg/v4-728px-Decide- if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-5.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/7/74/Decide-if-You-Should- Become-a-Stripper-Step-5.jpg/v4-728px-Decide-if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-5.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,” bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

You may get in trouble with your co-workers. As a dancer, your co-workers will be your competition, as you will essentially be competing for the attention of club patrons in order to receive tips and be invited to dance privately. . Don’t expect to befriend the people you work with, and be prepared to accept their rude behavior. ^{[4] X Research Sources}

For example, one of your co-workers is willing to give a client more physical contact during private dance sessions as this will create more work for her. Such things create friction and tension between the dancers.

Prepare for the initial investment

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/4/44/Decide-if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-6.jpg/v4-728px-Decide- if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-6.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/4/44/Decide-if-You-Should- Become-a-Stripper-Step-6.jpg/v4-728px-Decide-if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-6.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,” bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Apply for a license. Each region has different requirements, but most require you to apply for a license to become an erotic dancer. The cost to apply for this permit also varies from region to region. For example, the city of Denver, Cporado requires erotic dancers to apply for a business license for a total cost of approximately $175 USD, and also requires a criminal background check. ^{[5] X Research Sources}

Licensing requirements will vary depending on where you live and where you work, so you should inquire about these requirements (if applicable) in your city and/or state.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/8/80/Decide-if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-7.jpg/v4-728px-Decide- if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-7.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/8/80/Decide-if-You-Should- Become-a-Stripper-Step-7.jpg/v4-728px-Decide-if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-7.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,” bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Buy costumes. Before going to the rehearsal, you need to prepare the costumes. Maybe you should just buy one outfit at first, until you get a steady job. There are many online stores that sell costumes in sets or individually, and also bikinis. Choose an outfit that suits your personality. For example, if you’re going to dance to some pretty vibrant pop or hip-hop music, don’t wear black, try on a stylish outfit instead. Choose bright colors, sparkles, and glamorous designs. If you want to dance to rock music, choose dark clothes with chrome or metallic sheen.

These outfits range from $30 – $100 for a complete set – with some exceptions it will be cheaper or more expensive. Choose what suits your budget. You should wait until you have a stable income to choose expensive fancy clothes.
Depending on the type of club you’re working for, clothing may show more or less skin. For example, if you’re dancing at a club that allows full nudity, or is bare-chested, or only in bikinis, then you’ll have to choose your outfit accordingly.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/7/7e/Decide-if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-8.jpg/v4-728px-Decide- if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-8.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/7/7e/Decide-if-You-Should- Become-a-Stripper-Step-8.jpg/v4-728px-Decide-if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-8.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,” bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Buy shoes. You can’t wear loafers on stage as a stripper. Strippers often wear very high heels, so you’ll have to buy yourself one. Don’t buy regular low heel shoes but choose a pair that is at least 10 cm high. Buy a pair of special shoes for dancers. Consider the see-through heels you see in movie dancers. Usually you can buy these shoes at the same clothing store. Some online stores have promotions when you buy a complete outfit, like discounts or free shipping, so take advantage of that when you buy everything in one place. ^{[6] X Research Source}

A good pair of heels can be even more expensive than a suit, usually around $60-200. Initially, you should buy a pair of shoes at a low price, and wait until you have earned a stable income. Consider buying a pair of shoes that can be worn with many different outfits.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/9/94/Decide-if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-9.jpg/v4-728px-Decide- if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-9.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/9/94/Decide-if-You-Should- Become-a-Stripper-Step-9.jpg/v4-728px-Decide-if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-9.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,” bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Pay club fees. Many clubs require dancers to pay for each night they come to work. Dancers are often seen as independent contractors, so you’ll have to pay “rent” to do the work. Fees vary from club to club, depending on the club you are working for and each evening. For example, weekend evening fees may be higher than weekday evenings. Fees can range from $10 – $200/night or more, depending on the aforementioned factors. ^{[7] X Research Sources}

In addition, you also have to tip the bodyguards/security guards, the counter staff (because they bring customers to you), and even the DJ playing music for the show.

Live with the potential consequences later on

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/7/75/Decide-if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-10.jpg/v4-728px-Decide- if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-10.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/7/75/Decide-if-You-Should- Become-a-Stripper-Step-10.jpg/v4-728px-Decide-if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-10.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,” bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

People may judge you negatively. Pursuing a career in nude or erotic dance can really make people look at you negatively. Being naked is generally not considered an ethical way to make money, no matter how pure your thoughts. Many people have stereotypes about nude dancers that they will also apply to you, even if you are not what they think you are. You need to prepare yourself for the notoriety that this job brings, even the impact on personal relationships. ^{[8] X Research Sources}

As a stripper, you can have a hard time finding a lasting relationship, as it’s hard for anyone to accept that you’re naked or belly-dancing in front of other people. If you’re in a relationship, talk to your partner and make sure it doesn’t negatively affect your relationship. ^{[9] X Research Source}

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/6/61/Decide-if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-11.jpg/v4-728px-Decide- if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-11.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/6/61/Decide-if-You-Should- Become-a-Stripper-Step-11.jpg/v4-728px-Decide-if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-11.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,” bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Awareness of negative psychological influences. Since your salary will depend on whether others find you beautiful, you will also place your self-esteem and worth on the scale of physical attractiveness. Some strippers feel negative about themselves, or have harsh judgments about their appearance, which is difficult and expensive to change. Consider whether you can handle this in the future if you choose to be a stripper. ^{[10] X Research Source}

On the other hand, some strippers find taking off their clothes feels very free and confident. It all depends on your personality and your own feelings.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/0/0d/Decide-if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-12.jpg/v4-728px-Decide- if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-12.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/0/0d/Decide-if-You-Should- Become-a-Stripper-Step-12.jpg/v4-728px-Decide-if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-12.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,” bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

You probably won’t earn the expected amount. Since you’ve had to spend a decent amount of money on licensing, club fees, clothes and shoes initially, it’s possible that you’ll only break even after a few nights or even weeks. Staff tips and club fees can leave you empty-handed when you get home, but other days you might have a few hundred dollars left after all expenses have been deducted. The amount you earn will vary as it depends mainly on tips and what customers pay for private dance sessions. ^{[11] X Research Source}

The better your business skills, the better your chances of making money. Private dance sessions will often bring in more money than tips for performing on stage, so if you don’t like dancing separately, then stripper career is not for you.

Consider the safety factor

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/c/cf/Decide-if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-13.jpg/v4-728px-Decide- if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-13.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/c/cf/Decide-if-You-Should- Become-a-Stripper-Step-13.jpg/v4-728px-Decide-if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-13.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,” bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

You may encounter aggressive customers. Unfortunately, some people who go to a nude club believe that strippers are open to business – whatever the business. You may meet people who are very touchy or aggressive during a private dance session. You will have to stand up for yourself and set limits for yourself when doing private dance sessions with clients. You don’t have to do anything you don’t like. Tip a lot for the bodyguard and make sure to always have a bodyguard nearby when you’re dancing or performing privately.

If any aspect of this profession worries or displeases you, you should not pursue it. You should not put yourself in a difficult situation, when you are not ready to say no at times of need.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/d/da/Decide-if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-14.jpg/v4-728px-Decide- if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-14.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/d/da/Decide-if-You-Should- Become-a-Stripper-Step-14.jpg/v4-728px-Decide-if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-14.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,” bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Remember that you will find drugs. Some of your colleagues or clients use or sell drugs. Of course, this is unlikely to happen, but you should be prepared for that possibility. If you are prone to drug abuse, you should avoid being a stripper, because the temptation of drugs will be higher. You are also more likely to get involved in illegal activities, especially when you use or buy drugs at work. ^{[12] X Research Source}

Using drugs or getting drunk during a performance can leave you vulnerable to sexual assault, or to being robbed of the money you would otherwise receive from private dance sessions. It’s important to maintain alertness and vigilance while at work, so you should avoid getting naked if you’re not sure you can.

{“smallUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images_en/thumb/4/46/Decide-if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-15.jpg/v4-728px-Decide- if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-15.jpg”,”bigUrl”:”https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/4/46/Decide-if-You-Should- Become-a-Stripper-Step-15.jpg/v4-728px-Decide-if-You-Should-Become-a-Stripper-Step-15.jpg”,”smallWidth”:460,”smallHeight”:345,” bigWidth”:728,”bigHeight”:546,”licensing”:”<div class=”mw-parser-output”></div>”}

Remember that leaving the club at night can be dangerous. Walking alone at night can be risky at any time, but leaving a nightclub where people drink a lot of alcohol is even more risky. You could be assaulted, sexually assaulted or robbed, especially if people near the club assume you’re carrying cash. If possible, you should ask a bodyguard or colleague to accompany you out of the car to ensure safety.

When talking to new customers, you should not give them personal information. Personal information includes your whereabouts, other places of employment, or even school if you are a student. Don’t let them know if you have children or are in a relationship. You should just talk to them over the phone.

Advice

If you feel confident and give your best, you will find the nude dance profession to be very beneficial.
If you don’t want to be a stripper even though you desperately need money to support your family, it’s best to find another career.

Warning

Don’t take a job at a club that you don’t think is safe.
Do not agree to engage in any sexual activity that you do not want.

Steps