As a provider I don’t book through texting apps anymore, and most reputable providers won’t, and neither do reputable agencies. I have had some clients that were horrible experiences where I won’t see them again, and some have tried to book me using texting apps (some have even confessed when I have asked them to provide a legit phone number to book). So this is done largely for our safety. Also most of my fake bookings and no shows were from texting apps, which I would book people in when I was very new to this.
If you are contacting a reputable provider who has some reviews, a good reputation in the industry, a website/link website, social media presence and is on PERB, using your actual phone number is most of the time safe. Most of us would not compromise our reputation to do anything to you. A lot of us ethically would not rip you off or do anything nefarious. This is why doing your research on providers is important. You can delete messages (Google “how to permanently delete messages on your phone” and choose your phone manufacturer), if you’re worried. If you there is a time you don’t want a provider to contact you let them know. I have had people leave a text message saying something like “please don’t contact me after 5pm” after an inquiry to book. I also never message my clients first. Most of us won’t.
I have known of clients to use texting apps when contacting a provider who is not reviewed or new, but I’m sure you all know the risks with that overall even using a texting app. But for an unknown provider (as in unknown in the industry overall) that can be a route. Also read our ads, and websites if we have one for our booking process and preferred mode of contact. Many of us explicitly will say not to use texting apps/voips.
My first work phone was bought at a second hand phone store in a mall for cheap. Walmart, London Drugs, 7-11 are stores you can also find them. Many malls have stores that have used and refurbished phones for cheap. Also ask your phone provider for talk and text plans, or keep an eye out on phone plan deals. Fido, Koodo and Freedom recently had a low phone plan
If you’re a long time customer with your phone provider call them and ask for the loyalty department to discuss phone plans and adding a new cheap phone line. If they don’t give you something ask to speak to “retention”. That is not what they will call it, but that is what it’s called in phone companies, and they will know you’re serious. I used to work for a big communications company so I know this first hand.
Using a burner phone is also more reliable. Texting apps are not reliable at all. They won’t always send and receive messages or won’t work unless on wifi sometimes, or will just stop working. A legit phone will guarantee reputable providers and agencies to be more likely to book you and to actually work.
I hope this helps!
