Managing Your Rover Profile
Last week, we spoke with MaryMargaret, a Seattle based sitter about her profile makeover.
Today we’re going to chat with her about best practices, and what Rover recommended she do to be successful on the site.
Arah: So MaryMargaret, you have your updated profile, what did Rover suggest you do to make sure you were setting yourself up to be the most attractive to clients?
MaryMargaret: Well, first, they recommended I update my calendar regularly to make sure my clients know when I’m available–especially around the busy holiday season. They reminded me that pet owners are often looking for a sitter far in advance, so you want to be sure you’re as up to date as possible. Plus, I offer dog boarding which is in really high demand.
Arah: That’s a great point–the holidays are especially demanding, it makes sense that pet owners are looking far ahead to make sure they get a great sitter.
MaryMargaret: Yeah! They also recommended I make sure my Dog Preferences and Details sections are up to date. I want to be sure I am matched with dogs that suit my lifestyle. So in my case, I live in a townhome, so I prefer to take dogs that are on the small to medium size. A big active dog wouldn’t do well in my space! I also carefully filled out the details about my home so that a pet parent who is looking for a pet sitter with a yard, will know that I can’t provide that.
Arah: That’s very true. Dog owners want to make sure you’re a good fit for their dog, and you want to make sure they’re a good fit for you.
MaryMargaret: Exactly–the more detailed I am in my profile, the more likely I am to be contacted by clients who are a match.
Arah: What about client communication? How did they recommend you respond to clients?
MaryMargaret: They reiterated speed. The faster you respond to a client, the more likely you are to get a booking–if you’re a good match that is. Professional conduct is also super important. I always try to respond with details about myself and my schedule. You really want to make sure each dog in your care is a great fit for you.
Arah: Do you feel like this experience really set you up for more success on the site?
MaryMargaret: I definitely do! While it might seem like a lot of work, it just took a little bit of time to really enhance my profile and bring me some more business. If I could give advice to sitters who are just starting out, I’d encourage them to take some time and put some great details into their profile. It really helps you stand out.
Arah: Thanks for taking the time to chat with us today, and good luck with the holiday season!