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How do you tell an owner they aren't a good fit for you?

Hi there!

I have been in contact with an owner/client that is very demanding and doesn't really fit my style of sitting/training.

We scheduled a Meet & Greet a couple weeks ago, then had a phone conversation (where I realized this wasn't a good fit). Afterwards, I cancelled the M&G and told her I would not be able to watch her dogs while she is gone, hoping to avoid confrontation and a bad review.

She has been messaging & calling me at least once a day for the past few days, saying that she would like me to watch her dogs different dates that I show as available on my calendar.

What do I do?!

I don't want to be rude, but how do I let her know that she isn't a good fit for me or my dogs?

7 Answers

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Since you did not book a service (even less than that you did not have a meet&greet), you're not under any obligation to provide services. Just nicely let her know that you realized you were not a good fit for her needs, but Rover Support can help match her with a sitter for any upcoming needs.

On other posts, many sitters have commented that they always state that is what is in the client's/client's dog's best interests (not saying it's what is best for them or their dogs). You can also let support know.

Comments

Hi Deb! Thanks so much for your answer. I have contacted Rover Support, so I am waiting to see what they say. If they don't step in, I will most likely send her a polite message saying that I'm not a good fit for her needs & that it is in the best interest of her dogs. Thanks again!

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From the sound of it, you've handled it well and done your part. You don't owe the client an explanation beyond what you've already said - you are not available to watch her dogs. If she is still messaging you and you haven't done this yet, I recommend emailing/calling Rover and asking them to step in to assist. Have them look at the message chain and take over communications. If you've been clear and firm, continued contact on your part is not necessary. If the owner continues to message you it can be considered harassment.

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Hi Laura! Thank you very much for your answer. I have contacted Rover Support in hopes they will step in. I will keep this thread updated with their response. P.S. Noticed you are located in Portland! I would love to meet up sometime to discuss how you have built an awesome clientele with Rover :)

I think that by saying "I'm not available to watch your dogs", she thinks you mean that you literally do not have any available spaces. Being direct with people can get you better results sometimes.

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"Because I want the best possible experience for Fido, I think it would be best if you seek a different sitter."

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You need to be direct and polite. Simply tell her the specific reason why you are unable to watch her dog. It needs to be a thorough explanation, so she will understand. If you can't meet certain demands, tell her what they are. If you cannot accomodate her pickup/dropoff times, you need to let her know. A simple "we aren't right for you" is just going to leave her thinking that you're just not available that day.

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Literally just as you said: "I don't think I'm the right sitter for you. I recommend you try __."

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She can't leave a bad review, or any review, until you have actually accepted a booking with her. As long as the request is pending, they can't leave a review. No one can leave a review after just a meet and greet, that's why I always do a meet and greet first before accepting any booking. I feel for you....I have a client I don't mind doing check-ins but the house is so dusty and full of air fresheners it makes me physically sick so I am cringing that they will want me to stay overnight. I just can't do it.

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Great tips thanks I am learning so much reading this message boards