Hi,
I have literally just done what you have done. I have booked a hotel for 2 days as recommended on here and I have modified my AW profile to advertise. I have also advertised on backpage. I know there are other ways to advertise which hopefully others will help with you with.
I would imagine the request was someone wanting to work with you, which I would ignore, personally. (I've had them too).
As far as feedback for clients goes, I use it as an indication but I think other peoples' views differ. No feedback isn't necessarily bad, as many guys have just signed up.
Hope this helps for starters.