How to Close the Deal: Go from Request to Booking
A pet parent sent you a booking request! Now what? In this article, we’ll guide you through tips and tricks to close the deal and turn that request into an official booking.
Tip one: Respond quickly
Most pet parents reach out to more than one sitter. To give yourself an edge, it’s best to respond to booking requests as quickly as possible. We recommend responding in a timely manner after receiving the message. Of course, sometimes you receive the message at night, so in that case it would make sense not to respond until the following day.
To ensure you receive a notification when you get messages from pet parents, we recommend you download the Rover app for iOS or Android. You’ll be able to respond directly from the app and you can easily respond on the go. If you already have the app, be sure you’re using the most updated version. We also recommend enabling automatic updates for the Rover app. To do this, view the settings for the Rover app on your device.
Tip two: Sharpen your sales pitch
Pet parents want to make sure they’re leaving their pet with a sitter who’s a good match. They liked your profile enough to contact you, so the next step is to make sure they have the information they need to decide that you’re the right fit. Here are some ways to do that. When you message through the Rover platform, be sure to:
- Thank them for reaching out to you.
- Compliment their pet. They want to know you’ll love their pet(s) as much as they do.
- Illustrate what makes you a great sitter. Do you stay at home full-time? Or maybe you have a great backyard or live close to a dog park? Use this message as an opportunity to show what sets you apart from other sitters.
- Frame your questions positively. Instead of asking if their pet is aggressive, you could ask if they have any quirks or special needs you should be aware of. You could also ask about what their pet needs to feel most comfortable.
- Optional: If you feel ready, you could also offer to schedule a Meet & Greet to show the pet parent you’re serious and excited to meet their pet.
Including these items in your message can go a long way in helping the pet parent feel more at ease—plus it’ll help you both get the information you need to move forward. Check out an example message below:
“Hi Emily,
Thanks for reaching out! Roger looks so cute and happy, and I’m excited to learn more about him.
Looking at your profile, I think I could be a great match for Roger. I work from home, so he’ll never be left alone for longer than a couple of hours. I also have a small, fenced backyard and would plan to take him on two long walks every day. I’ve been working with animals as a sitter for five years and am happy to answer any questions you might have.
I’m curious about what kind of experience Roger has with other dogs. I have a dog of my own (Boomer, a Labrador mix) and I want to be sure Roger will be comfortable during his stay. Also, is there anything else I should know to make sure Roger feels safe and cared for?
Let me know if you have any questions for me. I’m also available to schedule a Meet & Greet. I’m free on Tuesday and Thursday evenings this week and would love to meet you and Roger.
I look forward to hearing from you soon!
Thanks,
Jill”
The tone of the message is warm, open, and professional—it makes a great first impression.
Tip three: What to do if a pet parent doesn’t respond
First, don’t worry if you don’t hear back immediately. Wait a day and then send one more message to ask if they’ve been able to find a sitter. Keep it warm and simple.
“Hi Emily,
I wanted to follow up and see if you’re still looking for a sitter for Roger. I’m still available if you have any questions or would like to schedule a Meet & Greet.
Hope to hear from you soon!
Thanks,
Jill”
A lot of pet parents appreciate the follow-up—it shows you’re excited to learn more about their pet.
Tip five: Stay in touch
A great way to stay in touch is to reach out through the Rover platform in advance of holidays or long weekends and let them know you’re available if they need to make a booking.
“Hi Emily,
I hope you’re having a great summer! I know Labor Day weekend is coming up next month and a lot of people plan to go out of town. My calendar is open for that weekend and I’d love to see Roger again. I’m also available for walks if that’s helpful.
I hope you’re all well!
Cheers,
Jill”
Finally, if they don’t book with you, try not to take it personally. Sometimes another sitter responds before you or seems like a better fit for their pet. Other times, pet parents change their minds and decide to ask a friend or family member for help instead.
Feel like you’re ready to book? Check out this article for more advice. Good luck!