How do I get my first booking?

Hi Kortne, Yes, certainly patience will help. I hope you don't mind I looked at your profile to see if I could provide more specific rather than general help to you. So here are some thoughts for you to accept or reject as you feel appropriate: For your "About" Title where you have "I'll walk and talk with your dog"--I would suggest changing that to something that is more attention getting---if you can think of something catchy that highlights your degrees in animal science that would set you apart. Right now your price seems quite a bit higher than other sitters in your area --which may be for good reason (your experience and educational background) but you need to really differentiate yourself better if that is the case, otherwise people will scroll on by someone priced higher than their market, especially someone who hasn't yet accumulated a lot of clients or reviews. And, your lack of availability during the day on weekdays may also be a factor when people are comparing prices. If you examine competitors' profiles in detail, those who command higher prices generally offer more time at home or have special skills. Perhaps a good About title might be "Degreed Animal Scientist" OR "Specializing in Weekend Care." (It needs to be 35 characters or less)

Don't be afraid to write a long profile to really help people get to know you. Also, as someone who cares for pitties myself I am aware that there are a lot of dog owners that have immediate concerns about mixing their dog with a pittie. So you might consider more information about your dog AND gathering some testimonials that speak directly to how well behaved and trained your own dog is. It is hard to get noticed as a new sitter. Without reviews and action via rover you are at a disadvantage until you collect some.

Have you considered directing friends with pets you sit for outside of Rover (that you met and cared for before starting as a Rover sitter) to sign up for Rover and book their care with you? I had been dogsitting for neighbors and friends for years but once becoming a Rover sitter now send everyone through Rover...if you do that it will help mature your profile.

And of course, work the heck out of social media. Once you have an established client base word of mouth will take over and lessen your reliance on that sort of marketing.

I hope that helps --and doesn't sound too critical--it's all just in the spirit of trying to help. Of course, your mileage may vary and others may have thoughts that directly contradict with mine.

I had my Rover profile for about a year before I had any requests. I recently got certified as a Quick Match walker and then once I accepted and completed my first Quick Match walk, I had several requests come in. I don't know if it was coincidence or what, but if Quick Match walking is available in your area, I'd suggest consider getting certified for that.

I would also suggest keeping your rates on the lower end to start. I'm still in that phase, so I'm not sure what or how I will handle increasing my prices quite yet, but having lower prices might get you some more requests. And make sure that your profile is thought out and well written! Good luck!