Standout Advertisement Styles for Companionship Services – East & West
Average Read Time: 9 – 12 minutes
In this article, I show off examples of companionship advertisements found on the online profiles of companion-for-hire websites. A seller's profile usually comes with a brief summary of the kind of companion services they are expected to provide. And while there is of course crossover, the characteristics of these adverts seem to differ in tonality by region. These are handpicked examples that I felt crystalized the general differences in undertone, presentation and intention, distinct to sellers located in Eastern or Western environments respectively.
Link to precursory article here:
(Disclaimer: Each of the following descriptions provides the country the seller is based in. This is simply to show what part of the world they're in; and the contents of each paragraph are not solely indicative of all seller profiles coming from each respective country as a whole. They're just there to show regional correlations [of where the seller is living at the time of writing these descriptions.]
As usual, usernames have been removed and grammar has been slightly improved for clarity, whilst still retaining the original context of the post's listing.)
Standout Themes Found in Western Profiles
Egoism, Self-Endearments
From: United States
Short Descriptions, Manipulation Tactics // Assertions of Being Non-Judgemental Whilst Simultaneously Labeling A Buyer
From: United Kingdom
“I am a safe place! I am a person you can talk to if you're: lonely, boring, or a shut-in! I can give you the spice of conversation that you need to elevate your conversational skills! You're going to struggle in the real world if you don't start somewhere! I've got three packages! Hit me up! Its just a few dollars! Why not spread the love?”
Claims of Possessing a 'Unique Personality'
From: Australia
“I will be your online friend. We all have our bad days. Sometimes we feel like we have no one to express or talk our problems to – that’s where I come in. I am a nice, caring person. I'm funny and chatty, and I have a unique personality that makes people happy & inspires! I never ever judge, everything stays private, I like to listen and my friends say I give unique advice on life!
Don’t be shy let everything out I'm open to talk about anything!
I'm in the Industry of Lifestyle.”
Self-Aggrandizement Off the Rails O_O
From: France
“Hey bestie,
DID YOU KNOW?
“New friendships have the potential to fill your heart with joy! It can lift your spirits and make you feel more positive about yourself. Even better if you have someone who is a good listener. I’m funny, lovely, smart and intelligent. I’ll add extra joy, happiness, and greatness to your day. I have a ton of positive perspectives and I am a truly beautiful and caring individual. I offer joy to everybody all over in light of the fact that it is what I appreciate doing the most. I’m here to pay attention you and any issues you might be having. Let’s get started!“
Pre-Packaged Intimacy, Market-Heavy Descriptions
From: Canada
“Are you looking for someone to text you good morning or say goodnight? Would you like to have someone send you an audio file of a lullaby to help you sleep? Are you looking for a friendly, sympathetic woman to talk to you about your day, or read excitedly when you info dump about your favorite hobby, fandom or thing of interest? Well, I am here to serve! I am a singer/writer who loves to communicate and talk about all sorts of things.
About my Packages!:
'Daily Check-In's for a Week' $10
-good morning/ good night text with brief chat,
-one other text during the day to see how you're doing and briefly chat. (Text only, no photos)
'Daily Text Conversations for a week' $20
This includes a morning check in and chat, text conversations throughout the day about topics of your choice and a goodnight text with a lullaby
RECOMMENDED FOR YOU
The 'Daily Life Share Package' $130
“This includes a good morning and goodnight text, and conversations throughout the day with life photos included. All perks of the lower tiers are also included.
Let's get to know each other!
I am a singer/writer who loves to communicate and talk about all sorts of things. I am passionate about helping people feel safe, valued and supported.”
Ridiculous Time Constraints, Overly Suggestive Profile Pictures
From: United States
“Hey! I am___. If you are bored , lonely or need a friend to vent and talk I'm here for you! I will be your new online friend – by chatting and listening to your concern + suggestion for 20 seconds for $10; or 60 seconds for $50.
I will sincerely listen to your concern and give you a response in that time. I can assure you that everything that we chat will be kept private.
I consider myself as a easygoing, funny, friendly and reliable person! Kindly contact me now and have fun.”
Standout Themes Found in Eastern & African Profiles
A Sense of Duty, Letting the Buyer Know What the Funds Allegedly Go Towards
From: Philippines
“I feel that we all have a duty to one another to make sure we're cared for. And with my service here, I hope to do just that. I am currently stuck at home because of my husband's job, so I thought I could at least put my menial time to good use – I only ask for a little spending money in return so I can make ends meet myself. Chatting here for many hours is time spent I could be making money doing odd-jobs, but I much prefer taking time out for others who are struggling (and perhaps stuck like me haha)”
Confiding in Strangers, Gifted Bonuses
From: Vietnam
“Hi there! I'm ____ who is an easygoing, funny, friendly, reliable person and easy to talk to! Having been through some chaos in my life, I found out sometimes it would be easier to share with a stranger than an acquaintance, and sometimes all you need is a listener without any judgment. That is my intention here: to be a friend, a listener, a secret keeper and emotional support for you.
Need to vent? => Here I am
Feeling bored? => Talk to me :)
Need a second opinion? => Tell me more
Wanna know more about Vietnam (for traveling)? => sure thing ;)
* Wanna practice Vietnamese? => Xin chào!
P.S. ~ There is an optional gift from me in my Standard and Premium packages which is 1 Photo edited for free within 24h after the chat is completed. Background/ Object removal/adjustment; Color correction/Color Alteration; Adjust Lighting / Contrast; Crop/ Rotate; Filter – whatever you like, based on your request for the photo.”
Admissions of Personal Experience, Trauma
From: Pakistan
Feeling Sad? Lonely? Depressed?
“Need a shoulder to lean on or just some relationship advice?
I will listen & support you through audio and text, maybe even a call if you are truly stuck. I understand, sometimes we just need to be heard, listened to, understood, to cry, hear a friendly voice or just bounce an idea off. I have had many experiences; both good and bad, rich and poor, relationships, anxiety, bullying, and physical assaults. But the more experience, the easier things are – it's hard to be upset anymore, I've been through it all! I've become my own woman.
There is always a way and I'm here to help.”
Claims of Stress Relief, 'Mindfulness'
From: Nigeria
“I'm basically here to provide my services as an online friend, to provide emotional support and be that friend you never had. I solemnly believe that great company can relieve stress and provide a greater outlook on life in this fast-paced society filled with distractions. Take a minute to breathe and appreciate the simple, yet effective things like a smile.”
Humility
From: India
“I do not have all the answers, but I am always willing to listen to others. Sometimes all we need is someone to talk to, someone who cares, someone who won't condemn us and who will listen without prejudice. I will give you space to release your burdens and take better control of your life.”
Hiring a Soulmate
From: Nigeria
“I will be your online best friend and soulmate you can contact at any time!”
Hello dears, glad you stopped by! Are you looking for someone to talk to? Do you desire a friend with whom you can discuss your problems? Because of the situation and the global pandemic, life is quite difficult right now. I am delighted to be your online friend with whom you can communicate at any moment.”
* 'Soulmate' Footnote:
Different parts of the world have different concepts of what the word “soulmate" means.
Depending upon the global region and intention, a "soulmate" can be:
1) a person who is an instrument for spiritual growth or emotional development. 2) a very close friend or relative whose tastes and temperament are complimentary to one another. The term "soulmate" is not directly synonymous with a romantic partnership or love interest, as most view it in the West.
Bonus Section
Consistently Pitched Benefits
There are a few qualities that are repeatedly mentioned across most companionship profiles, regardless of location. These are often qualities of demeanor, common decency, or even basic personality traits, that are played off as the “benefits” you could receive by hiring them and their services.
The most commonly repeated benefits I see are any combination of the following five capacities:
I will actively listen.
I am supportive.
I can be emotionally available to you.
I will accept you as you are.
I will be there like others aren't.
It is crazy to me that these five quips found across most sellers' profiles are simply the baseline qualities for basic emotional intelligence.
And yet here we are: putting them up on an online shelf rack like any other product... somewhere in between the electronics section and the clothing aisle. It's concerning to me that qualities so squarely human are being sold as if they're rarities – emotional capacities marketed out as if they're 'the benefits of a product', or 'the results of a service'.
"For $9.99 a day, YOU TOO can have sincerity!"
Emotional commodification is something that has been deeply woven into the service industry for quite some time now. From the hired hospitality of an esteemed stewardess, to the patience and response-time of a nursery or a good customer service.
But in those experiences, the lines are more clearly drawn. You are, (at least I hope), keenly aware that the stewardess on your flight isn't actually your close friend; even though she gives off an especially comforting aura to make your anxious flight more enjoyable or studious. Her “hospitality” and “kindness” is a put-on. She is doing what she does for everyone else, and she has cast an identical smile across the plane's passenger cabin hundreds of times, for no one in particular. And all whilst feeling the same pains, sorrows and joys on the job as you or I.
With commodified companions however, this is paying for something much more intimate than being served a hotel's room service. You are expressly paying for someone to feign affection or interest in you. To me, that just feels dangerously close to pulling marionette strings in your mind.
Having a bad day? Insert a few dollars into the computer monitor to make a pleasant person appear. Repeat because “this is the safer option”. Repeat because “they won't leave me if I keep giving them money...”
Depending on your mentality, stage of isolation, and the degree to which your seller chooses to partake in manipulation tactics, I could see it being a very dangerous game of attempting to keep reality in check for some. When reality is a mirror and you're walking the along the edge, it doesn't take much to push you down the non-reflective side. Addictions and dependencies can happen in all sorts of ways. It's a grave misconception that you need be 'out of your mind' to be susceptible to such things.
From: United Kingdom
Claims of Possessing a 'Unique Personality'
From: Australia
“I will be your online friend. We all have our bad days. Sometimes we feel like we have no one to express or talk our problems to – that’s where I come in. I am a nice, caring person. I'm funny and chatty, and I have a unique personality that makes people happy & inspires! I never ever judge, everything stays private, I like to listen and my friends say I give unique advice on life!
Don’t be shy let everything out I'm open to talk about anything!
I'm in the Industry of Lifestyle.”
Self-Aggrandizement Off the Rails O_O
From: France
“Hey bestie,
DID YOU KNOW?
“New friendships have the potential to fill your heart with joy! It can lift your spirits and make you feel more positive about yourself. Even better if you have someone who is a good listener. I’m funny, lovely, smart and intelligent. I’ll add extra joy, happiness, and greatness to your day. I have a ton of positive perspectives and I am a truly beautiful and caring individual. I offer joy to everybody all over in light of the fact that it is what I appreciate doing the most. I’m here to pay attention you and any issues you might be having. Let’s get started!“
Pre-Packaged Intimacy, Market-Heavy Descriptions
From: Canada
“Are you looking for someone to text you good morning or say goodnight? Would you like to have someone send you an audio file of a lullaby to help you sleep? Are you looking for a friendly, sympathetic woman to talk to you about your day, or read excitedly when you info dump about your favorite hobby, fandom or thing of interest? Well, I am here to serve! I am a singer/writer who loves to communicate and talk about all sorts of things.
About my Packages!:
'Daily Check-In's for a Week' $10
-good morning/ good night text with brief chat,
-one other text during the day to see how you're doing and briefly chat. (Text only, no photos)
'Daily Text Conversations for a week' $20
This includes a morning check in and chat, text conversations throughout the day about topics of your choice and a goodnight text with a lullaby
RECOMMENDED FOR YOU
The 'Daily Life Share Package' $130
“This includes a good morning and goodnight text, and conversations throughout the day with life photos included. All perks of the lower tiers are also included.
Let's get to know each other!
I am a singer/writer who loves to communicate and talk about all sorts of things. I am passionate about helping people feel safe, valued and supported.”
Ridiculous Time Constraints, Overly Suggestive Profile Pictures
From: United States
“Hey! I am___. If you are bored , lonely or need a friend to vent and talk I'm here for you! I will be your new online friend – by chatting and listening to your concern + suggestion for 20 seconds for $10; or 60 seconds for $50.
I will sincerely listen to your concern and give you a response in that time. I can assure you that everything that we chat will be kept private.
I consider myself as a easygoing, funny, friendly and reliable person! Kindly contact me now and have fun.”
Standout Themes Found in Eastern & African Profiles
A Sense of Duty, Letting the Buyer Know What the Funds Allegedly Go Towards
From: Philippines
“I feel that we all have a duty to one another to make sure we're cared for. And with my service here, I hope to do just that. I am currently stuck at home because of my husband's job, so I thought I could at least put my menial time to good use – I only ask for a little spending money in return so I can make ends meet myself. Chatting here for many hours is time spent I could be making money doing odd-jobs, but I much prefer taking time out for others who are struggling (and perhaps stuck like me haha)”
Confiding in Strangers, Gifted Bonuses
From: Vietnam
“Hi there! I'm ____ who is an easygoing, funny, friendly, reliable person and easy to talk to! Having been through some chaos in my life, I found out sometimes it would be easier to share with a stranger than an acquaintance, and sometimes all you need is a listener without any judgment. That is my intention here: to be a friend, a listener, a secret keeper and emotional support for you.
Need to vent? => Here I am
Feeling bored? => Talk to me :)
Need a second opinion? => Tell me more
Wanna know more about Vietnam (for traveling)? => sure thing ;)
* Wanna practice Vietnamese? => Xin chào!
P.S. ~ There is an optional gift from me in my Standard and Premium packages which is 1 Photo edited for free within 24h after the chat is completed. Background/ Object removal/adjustment; Color correction/Color Alteration; Adjust Lighting / Contrast; Crop/ Rotate; Filter – whatever you like, based on your request for the photo.”
Admissions of Personal Experience, Trauma
From: Pakistan
Feeling Sad? Lonely? Depressed?
“Need a shoulder to lean on or just some relationship advice?
I will listen & support you through audio and text, maybe even a call if you are truly stuck. I understand, sometimes we just need to be heard, listened to, understood, to cry, hear a friendly voice or just bounce an idea off. I have had many experiences; both good and bad, rich and poor, relationships, anxiety, bullying, and physical assaults. But the more experience, the easier things are – it's hard to be upset anymore, I've been through it all! I've become my own woman.
There is always a way and I'm here to help.”
Claims of Stress Relief, 'Mindfulness'
From: Nigeria
“I'm basically here to provide my services as an online friend, to provide emotional support and be that friend you never had. I solemnly believe that great company can relieve stress and provide a greater outlook on life in this fast-paced society filled with distractions. Take a minute to breathe and appreciate the simple, yet effective things like a smile.”
Humility
From: India
“I do not have all the answers, but I am always willing to listen to others. Sometimes all we need is someone to talk to, someone who cares, someone who won't condemn us and who will listen without prejudice. I will give you space to release your burdens and take better control of your life.”
Hiring a Soulmate
From: Nigeria
“I will be your online best friend and soulmate you can contact at any time!”
Hello dears, glad you stopped by! Are you looking for someone to talk to? Do you desire a friend with whom you can discuss your problems? Because of the situation and the global pandemic, life is quite difficult right now. I am delighted to be your online friend with whom you can communicate at any moment.”
* 'Soulmate' Footnote:
Different parts of the world have different concepts of what the word “soulmate" means.
Depending upon the global region and intention, a "soulmate" can be:
1) a person who is an instrument for spiritual growth or emotional development. 2) a very close friend or relative whose tastes and temperament are complimentary to one another. The term "soulmate" is not directly synonymous with a romantic partnership or love interest, as most view it in the West.
Bonus Section
Consistently Pitched Benefits
There are a few qualities that are repeatedly mentioned across most companionship profiles, regardless of location. These are often qualities of demeanor, common decency, or even basic personality traits, that are played off as the “benefits” you could receive by hiring them and their services.
The most commonly repeated benefits I see are any combination of the following five capacities:
I will actively listen.
I am supportive.
I can be emotionally available to you.
I will accept you as you are.
I will be there like others aren't.
It is crazy to me that these five quips found across most sellers' profiles are simply the baseline qualities for basic emotional intelligence.
And yet here we are: putting them up on an online shelf rack like any other product... somewhere in between the electronics section and the clothing aisle. It's concerning to me that qualities so squarely human are being sold as if they're rarities – emotional capacities marketed out as if they're 'the benefits of a product', or 'the results of a service'.
"For $9.99 a day, YOU TOO can have sincerity!"
Emotional commodification is something that has been deeply woven into the service industry for quite some time now. From the hired hospitality of an esteemed stewardess, to the patience and response-time of a nursery or a good customer service.
But in those experiences, the lines are more clearly drawn. You are, (at least I hope), keenly aware that the stewardess on your flight isn't actually your close friend; even though she gives off an especially comforting aura to make your anxious flight more enjoyable or studious. Her “hospitality” and “kindness” is a put-on. She is doing what she does for everyone else, and she has cast an identical smile across the plane's passenger cabin hundreds of times, for no one in particular. And all whilst feeling the same pains, sorrows and joys on the job as you or I.
With commodified companions however, this is paying for something much more intimate than being served a hotel's room service. You are expressly paying for someone to feign affection or interest in you. To me, that just feels dangerously close to pulling marionette strings in your mind.
Having a bad day? Insert a few dollars into the computer monitor to make a pleasant person appear. Repeat because “this is the safer option”. Repeat because “they won't leave me if I keep giving them money...”
Depending on your mentality, stage of isolation, and the degree to which your seller chooses to partake in manipulation tactics, I could see it being a very dangerous game of attempting to keep reality in check for some. When reality is a mirror and you're walking the along the edge, it doesn't take much to push you down the non-reflective side. Addictions and dependencies can happen in all sorts of ways. It's a grave misconception that you need be 'out of your mind' to be susceptible to such things.
From: Australia
Self-Aggrandizement Off the Rails O_O
From: France
“Hey bestie,
DID YOU KNOW?
“New friendships have the potential to fill your heart with joy! It can lift your spirits and make you feel more positive about yourself. Even better if you have someone who is a good listener. I’m funny, lovely, smart and intelligent. I’ll add extra joy, happiness, and greatness to your day. I have a ton of positive perspectives and I am a truly beautiful and caring individual. I offer joy to everybody all over in light of the fact that it is what I appreciate doing the most. I’m here to pay attention you and any issues you might be having. Let’s get started!“
Pre-Packaged Intimacy, Market-Heavy Descriptions
From: Canada
“Are you looking for someone to text you good morning or say goodnight? Would you like to have someone send you an audio file of a lullaby to help you sleep? Are you looking for a friendly, sympathetic woman to talk to you about your day, or read excitedly when you info dump about your favorite hobby, fandom or thing of interest? Well, I am here to serve! I am a singer/writer who loves to communicate and talk about all sorts of things.
About my Packages!:
'Daily Check-In's for a Week' $10
-good morning/ good night text with brief chat,
-one other text during the day to see how you're doing and briefly chat. (Text only, no photos)
'Daily Text Conversations for a week' $20
This includes a morning check in and chat, text conversations throughout the day about topics of your choice and a goodnight text with a lullaby
RECOMMENDED FOR YOU
The 'Daily Life Share Package' $130
“This includes a good morning and goodnight text, and conversations throughout the day with life photos included. All perks of the lower tiers are also included.
Let's get to know each other!
I am a singer/writer who loves to communicate and talk about all sorts of things. I am passionate about helping people feel safe, valued and supported.”
Ridiculous Time Constraints, Overly Suggestive Profile Pictures
From: United States
“Hey! I am___. If you are bored , lonely or need a friend to vent and talk I'm here for you! I will be your new online friend – by chatting and listening to your concern + suggestion for 20 seconds for $10; or 60 seconds for $50.
I will sincerely listen to your concern and give you a response in that time. I can assure you that everything that we chat will be kept private.
I consider myself as a easygoing, funny, friendly and reliable person! Kindly contact me now and have fun.”
Standout Themes Found in Eastern & African Profiles
A Sense of Duty, Letting the Buyer Know What the Funds Allegedly Go Towards
From: Philippines
“I feel that we all have a duty to one another to make sure we're cared for. And with my service here, I hope to do just that. I am currently stuck at home because of my husband's job, so I thought I could at least put my menial time to good use – I only ask for a little spending money in return so I can make ends meet myself. Chatting here for many hours is time spent I could be making money doing odd-jobs, but I much prefer taking time out for others who are struggling (and perhaps stuck like me haha)”
Confiding in Strangers, Gifted Bonuses
From: Vietnam
“Hi there! I'm ____ who is an easygoing, funny, friendly, reliable person and easy to talk to! Having been through some chaos in my life, I found out sometimes it would be easier to share with a stranger than an acquaintance, and sometimes all you need is a listener without any judgment. That is my intention here: to be a friend, a listener, a secret keeper and emotional support for you.
Need to vent? => Here I am
Feeling bored? => Talk to me :)
Need a second opinion? => Tell me more
Wanna know more about Vietnam (for traveling)? => sure thing ;)
* Wanna practice Vietnamese? => Xin chào!
P.S. ~ There is an optional gift from me in my Standard and Premium packages which is 1 Photo edited for free within 24h after the chat is completed. Background/ Object removal/adjustment; Color correction/Color Alteration; Adjust Lighting / Contrast; Crop/ Rotate; Filter – whatever you like, based on your request for the photo.”
Admissions of Personal Experience, Trauma
From: Pakistan
Feeling Sad? Lonely? Depressed?
“Need a shoulder to lean on or just some relationship advice?
I will listen & support you through audio and text, maybe even a call if you are truly stuck. I understand, sometimes we just need to be heard, listened to, understood, to cry, hear a friendly voice or just bounce an idea off. I have had many experiences; both good and bad, rich and poor, relationships, anxiety, bullying, and physical assaults. But the more experience, the easier things are – it's hard to be upset anymore, I've been through it all! I've become my own woman.
There is always a way and I'm here to help.”
Claims of Stress Relief, 'Mindfulness'
From: Nigeria
“I'm basically here to provide my services as an online friend, to provide emotional support and be that friend you never had. I solemnly believe that great company can relieve stress and provide a greater outlook on life in this fast-paced society filled with distractions. Take a minute to breathe and appreciate the simple, yet effective things like a smile.”
Humility
From: India
“I do not have all the answers, but I am always willing to listen to others. Sometimes all we need is someone to talk to, someone who cares, someone who won't condemn us and who will listen without prejudice. I will give you space to release your burdens and take better control of your life.”
Hiring a Soulmate
From: Nigeria
“I will be your online best friend and soulmate you can contact at any time!”
Hello dears, glad you stopped by! Are you looking for someone to talk to? Do you desire a friend with whom you can discuss your problems? Because of the situation and the global pandemic, life is quite difficult right now. I am delighted to be your online friend with whom you can communicate at any moment.”
* 'Soulmate' Footnote:
Different parts of the world have different concepts of what the word “soulmate" means.
Depending upon the global region and intention, a "soulmate" can be:
1) a person who is an instrument for spiritual growth or emotional development. 2) a very close friend or relative whose tastes and temperament are complimentary to one another. The term "soulmate" is not directly synonymous with a romantic partnership or love interest, as most view it in the West.
Bonus Section
Consistently Pitched Benefits
There are a few qualities that are repeatedly mentioned across most companionship profiles, regardless of location. These are often qualities of demeanor, common decency, or even basic personality traits, that are played off as the “benefits” you could receive by hiring them and their services.
The most commonly repeated benefits I see are any combination of the following five capacities:
I will actively listen.
I am supportive.
I can be emotionally available to you.
I will accept you as you are.
I will be there like others aren't.
It is crazy to me that these five quips found across most sellers' profiles are simply the baseline qualities for basic emotional intelligence.
And yet here we are: putting them up on an online shelf rack like any other product... somewhere in between the electronics section and the clothing aisle. It's concerning to me that qualities so squarely human are being sold as if they're rarities – emotional capacities marketed out as if they're 'the benefits of a product', or 'the results of a service'.
"For $9.99 a day, YOU TOO can have sincerity!"
Emotional commodification is something that has been deeply woven into the service industry for quite some time now. From the hired hospitality of an esteemed stewardess, to the patience and response-time of a nursery or a good customer service.
But in those experiences, the lines are more clearly drawn. You are, (at least I hope), keenly aware that the stewardess on your flight isn't actually your close friend; even though she gives off an especially comforting aura to make your anxious flight more enjoyable or studious. Her “hospitality” and “kindness” is a put-on. She is doing what she does for everyone else, and she has cast an identical smile across the plane's passenger cabin hundreds of times, for no one in particular. And all whilst feeling the same pains, sorrows and joys on the job as you or I.
With commodified companions however, this is paying for something much more intimate than being served a hotel's room service. You are expressly paying for someone to feign affection or interest in you. To me, that just feels dangerously close to pulling marionette strings in your mind.
Having a bad day? Insert a few dollars into the computer monitor to make a pleasant person appear. Repeat because “this is the safer option”. Repeat because “they won't leave me if I keep giving them money...”
Depending on your mentality, stage of isolation, and the degree to which your seller chooses to partake in manipulation tactics, I could see it being a very dangerous game of attempting to keep reality in check for some. When reality is a mirror and you're walking the along the edge, it doesn't take much to push you down the non-reflective side. Addictions and dependencies can happen in all sorts of ways. It's a grave misconception that you need be 'out of your mind' to be susceptible to such things.
From: France
“Hey bestie,
DID YOU KNOW?“New friendships have the potential to fill your heart with joy! It can lift your spirits and make you feel more positive about yourself. Even better if you have someone who is a good listener. I’m funny, lovely, smart and intelligent. I’ll add extra joy, happiness, and greatness to your day. I have a ton of positive perspectives and I am a truly beautiful and caring individual. I offer joy to everybody all over in light of the fact that it is what I appreciate doing the most. I’m here to pay attention you and any issues you might be having. Let’s get started!“
Pre-Packaged Intimacy, Market-Heavy Descriptions
From: Canada
About my Packages!: 'Daily Check-In's for a Week' $10 -good morning/ good night text with brief chat, -one other text during the day to see how you're doing and briefly chat. (Text only, no photos)
'Daily Text Conversations for a week' $20 This includes a morning check in and chat, text conversations throughout the day about topics of your choice and a goodnight text with a lullaby
RECOMMENDED FOR YOU The 'Daily Life Share Package' $130 “This includes a good morning and goodnight text, and conversations throughout the day with life photos included. All perks of the lower tiers are also included. Let's get to know each other!
I am a singer/writer who loves to communicate and talk about all sorts of things. I am passionate about helping people feel safe, valued and supported.”
Ridiculous Time Constraints, Overly Suggestive Profile Pictures
From: United States
“Hey! I am___. If you are bored , lonely or need a friend to vent and talk I'm here for you! I will be your new online friend – by chatting and listening to your concern + suggestion for 20 seconds for $10; or 60 seconds for $50.
I will sincerely listen to your concern and give you a response in that time. I can assure you that everything that we chat will be kept private.
I consider myself as a easygoing, funny, friendly and reliable person! Kindly contact me now and have fun.”
Standout Themes Found in Eastern & African Profiles
A Sense of Duty, Letting the Buyer Know What the Funds Allegedly Go Towards
From: Philippines
“I feel that we all have a duty to one another to make sure we're cared for. And with my service here, I hope to do just that. I am currently stuck at home because of my husband's job, so I thought I could at least put my menial time to good use – I only ask for a little spending money in return so I can make ends meet myself. Chatting here for many hours is time spent I could be making money doing odd-jobs, but I much prefer taking time out for others who are struggling (and perhaps stuck like me haha)”
Confiding in Strangers, Gifted Bonuses
From: Vietnam
“Hi there! I'm ____ who is an easygoing, funny, friendly, reliable person and easy to talk to! Having been through some chaos in my life, I found out sometimes it would be easier to share with a stranger than an acquaintance, and sometimes all you need is a listener without any judgment. That is my intention here: to be a friend, a listener, a secret keeper and emotional support for you.
Need to vent? => Here I am
Feeling bored? => Talk to me :)
Need a second opinion? => Tell me more
Wanna know more about Vietnam (for traveling)? => sure thing ;)
* Wanna practice Vietnamese? => Xin chào!
P.S. ~ There is an optional gift from me in my Standard and Premium packages which is 1 Photo edited for free within 24h after the chat is completed. Background/ Object removal/adjustment; Color correction/Color Alteration; Adjust Lighting / Contrast; Crop/ Rotate; Filter – whatever you like, based on your request for the photo.”
Admissions of Personal Experience, Trauma
From: Pakistan
Feeling Sad? Lonely? Depressed?
“Need a shoulder to lean on or just some relationship advice?
I will listen & support you through audio and text, maybe even a call if you are truly stuck. I understand, sometimes we just need to be heard, listened to, understood, to cry, hear a friendly voice or just bounce an idea off. I have had many experiences; both good and bad, rich and poor, relationships, anxiety, bullying, and physical assaults. But the more experience, the easier things are – it's hard to be upset anymore, I've been through it all! I've become my own woman.
There is always a way and I'm here to help.”
Claims of Stress Relief, 'Mindfulness'
From: Nigeria
“I'm basically here to provide my services as an online friend, to provide emotional support and be that friend you never had. I solemnly believe that great company can relieve stress and provide a greater outlook on life in this fast-paced society filled with distractions. Take a minute to breathe and appreciate the simple, yet effective things like a smile.”
Humility
From: India
“I do not have all the answers, but I am always willing to listen to others. Sometimes all we need is someone to talk to, someone who cares, someone who won't condemn us and who will listen without prejudice. I will give you space to release your burdens and take better control of your life.”
Hiring a Soulmate
From: Nigeria
“I will be your online best friend and soulmate you can contact at any time!”
Hello dears, glad you stopped by! Are you looking for someone to talk to? Do you desire a friend with whom you can discuss your problems? Because of the situation and the global pandemic, life is quite difficult right now. I am delighted to be your online friend with whom you can communicate at any moment.”
* 'Soulmate' Footnote:
Different parts of the world have different concepts of what the word “soulmate" means.
Depending upon the global region and intention, a "soulmate" can be:
1) a person who is an instrument for spiritual growth or emotional development. 2) a very close friend or relative whose tastes and temperament are complimentary to one another. The term "soulmate" is not directly synonymous with a romantic partnership or love interest, as most view it in the West.
Bonus Section
Consistently Pitched Benefits
There are a few qualities that are repeatedly mentioned across most companionship profiles, regardless of location. These are often qualities of demeanor, common decency, or even basic personality traits, that are played off as the “benefits” you could receive by hiring them and their services.
The most commonly repeated benefits I see are any combination of the following five capacities:
I will actively listen.
I am supportive.
I can be emotionally available to you.
I will accept you as you are.
I will be there like others aren't.
It is crazy to me that these five quips found across most sellers' profiles are simply the baseline qualities for basic emotional intelligence.
And yet here we are: putting them up on an online shelf rack like any other product... somewhere in between the electronics section and the clothing aisle. It's concerning to me that qualities so squarely human are being sold as if they're rarities – emotional capacities marketed out as if they're 'the benefits of a product', or 'the results of a service'.
"For $9.99 a day, YOU TOO can have sincerity!"
Emotional commodification is something that has been deeply woven into the service industry for quite some time now. From the hired hospitality of an esteemed stewardess, to the patience and response-time of a nursery or a good customer service.
But in those experiences, the lines are more clearly drawn. You are, (at least I hope), keenly aware that the stewardess on your flight isn't actually your close friend; even though she gives off an especially comforting aura to make your anxious flight more enjoyable or studious. Her “hospitality” and “kindness” is a put-on. She is doing what she does for everyone else, and she has cast an identical smile across the plane's passenger cabin hundreds of times, for no one in particular. And all whilst feeling the same pains, sorrows and joys on the job as you or I.
With commodified companions however, this is paying for something much more intimate than being served a hotel's room service. You are expressly paying for someone to feign affection or interest in you. To me, that just feels dangerously close to pulling marionette strings in your mind.
Having a bad day? Insert a few dollars into the computer monitor to make a pleasant person appear. Repeat because “this is the safer option”. Repeat because “they won't leave me if I keep giving them money...”
Depending on your mentality, stage of isolation, and the degree to which your seller chooses to partake in manipulation tactics, I could see it being a very dangerous game of attempting to keep reality in check for some. When reality is a mirror and you're walking the along the edge, it doesn't take much to push you down the non-reflective side. Addictions and dependencies can happen in all sorts of ways. It's a grave misconception that you need be 'out of your mind' to be susceptible to such things.
From: United States
I will sincerely listen to your concern and give you a response in that time. I can assure you that everything that we chat will be kept private. I consider myself as a easygoing, funny, friendly and reliable person! Kindly contact me now and have fun.”
Standout Themes Found in Eastern & African Profiles
A Sense of Duty, Letting the Buyer Know What the Funds Allegedly Go Towards
From: Philippines
Confiding in Strangers, Gifted Bonuses
From: Vietnam
Need to vent? => Here I am Feeling bored? => Talk to me :) Need a second opinion? => Tell me more Wanna know more about Vietnam (for traveling)? => sure thing ;) * Wanna practice Vietnamese? => Xin chào!
P.S. ~ There is an optional gift from me in my Standard and Premium packages which is 1 Photo edited for free within 24h after the chat is completed. Background/ Object removal/adjustment; Color correction/Color Alteration; Adjust Lighting / Contrast; Crop/ Rotate; Filter – whatever you like, based on your request for the photo.”
Admissions of Personal Experience, Trauma
From: Pakistan
There is always a way and I'm here to help.”
Claims of Stress Relief, 'Mindfulness'
From: Nigeria
Humility
From: India
Hiring a Soulmate
From: Nigeria
Bonus Section
Consistently Pitched Benefits
There are a few qualities that are repeatedly mentioned across most companionship profiles, regardless of location. These are often qualities of demeanor, common decency, or even basic personality traits, that are played off as the “benefits” you could receive by hiring them and their services.
The most commonly repeated benefits I see are any combination of the following five capacities:
I will actively listen. I am supportive. I can be emotionally available to you. I will accept you as you are. I will be there like others aren't.
It is crazy to me that these five quips found across most sellers' profiles are simply the baseline qualities for basic emotional intelligence.
And yet here we are: putting them up on an online shelf rack like any other product... somewhere in between the electronics section and the clothing aisle. It's concerning to me that qualities so squarely human are being sold as if they're rarities – emotional capacities marketed out as if they're 'the benefits of a product', or 'the results of a service'.
"For $9.99 a day, YOU TOO can have sincerity!"
Emotional commodification is something that has been deeply woven into the service industry for quite some time now. From the hired hospitality of an esteemed stewardess, to the patience and response-time of a nursery or a good customer service.
But in those experiences, the lines are more clearly drawn. You are, (at least I hope), keenly aware that the stewardess on your flight isn't actually your close friend; even though she gives off an especially comforting aura to make your anxious flight more enjoyable or studious. Her “hospitality” and “kindness” is a put-on. She is doing what she does for everyone else, and she has cast an identical smile across the plane's passenger cabin hundreds of times, for no one in particular. And all whilst feeling the same pains, sorrows and joys on the job as you or I.
With commodified companions however, this is paying for something much more intimate than being served a hotel's room service. You are expressly paying for someone to feign affection or interest in you. To me, that just feels dangerously close to pulling marionette strings in your mind.
Having a bad day? Insert a few dollars into the computer monitor to make a pleasant person appear. Repeat because “this is the safer option”. Repeat because “they won't leave me if I keep giving them money...”
Depending on your mentality, stage of isolation, and the degree to which your seller chooses to partake in manipulation tactics, I could see it being a very dangerous game of attempting to keep reality in check for some. When reality is a mirror and you're walking the along the edge, it doesn't take much to push you down the non-reflective side. Addictions and dependencies can happen in all sorts of ways. It's a grave misconception that you need be 'out of your mind' to be susceptible to such things.