Although I am a relative newbie on PERB my enjoyment of this "hobby" is now well more than a decade old. I've learned that the best SPs, and those with the longest and most enjoyed careers, are those who just behave like themselves. "Be yourself" tends to be an exhausting, annoying cliche these days but that does not diminish its validity. The best SPs truly enjoy the intimacy and excitement that comes with having numerous sex partners, and find men's lust (as well as other more enduring emotions like familiarity, comfort, friendship or even love) to be a source of confidence and validation rather than something to be controlled or feared.
These qualities can be faked, but not well and not over the long-term. Eventually it manifests in the SP's performance and ultimately in their longevity in the business. Attitude during the session, and the SP's particular menu, are what we customers notice but they are undoubtedly an outward reflection of the SP's self-image.
We hobbyists may, like all men, have specific preferences for body type, age, hair colour, etc. and look for specific acts/techniques during the sexual encounter. But, to paraphrase blazejowski, attitude and chemistry are the most important. To me they supercede all else and I'm sure many other experienced customers agree.
Rates are a different issue entirely and depend on the local average as well as your experience and perceived level of quality. From what I've seen, most of us Winnipeg men will pay in the vicinity of $200 for good quality and slightly more for exceptional quality. Other 'peggers, please feel free to comment if I am incorrect on this as I don't see SPs very often anymore. One last thing - I would not expect "tips" until you are well-established, and even then they should not be considered a measure of your quality as an SP or how much you are appreciated by your clients.
VF
I agree with absolutely everything you said, and most articulately too, I might add!