I just joined and got approved about 4 days ago.
Welcome to Rover!
You actually don't show up in the search at all for me when I searched for dog boarders in Montclair, CA with open dates and none of my dogs selected. I can view your profile directly from this page, and I can see your map and neighborhood and everything, but I couldn't find you when I did a search. Go on Rover and see if you can search and find yourself. If you can't, contact Rover and let them know you're not showing up in the search rankings. Maybe that's why nobody's requested you yet!
Aside from that, keep your calendar updated! As often as you can, go to your calendar and just click "confirm available" if it's accurate. This will move you up in the search rankings, which is #1.
I agree with Walt about updating your pictures. I went for a "meme-worthy cute dog photos" theme, combined with a couple that showcase my more serious-about-dogs side (my crate training my puppy pic). Since you're a vet assistant, I would definitely get at least one picture of you at work looking professional and dedicated to dog care. I think clients like sitters who are serious about dogs and not just doing the bare minimum for a little extra cash.
I would ask a friend to edit your profile. There are some typos, missing punctuation, and extra words that make some of it confusing to read. Great job keeping it short though and referencing very relevant things (why you're doing this, the fact you're a vet assistant).
Definitely look at other sitters' profiles in your area - the ones that appear at the very top of the search who have tons of stellar reviews. Look at a few and see if there are any themes you can pick out and apply them to your profile.
Testimonials - I got started with two testimonials like the ones you have. I think as long as you have something instead of nothing, you're doing fine. I just wanted to point out that testimonials do not have to be from previous clients - they can be from anyone who's seen how you are with dogs. So if you have a coworker, friend, or family member who knows you're good with dogs, ask them to write a sentence or two for you.
If you're really serious, give yourself a business-sounding name. If this were a full-time business, what would you call it? Make a Facebook page. Definitely keep doing what you're doing as far as posting on Craigslist and such. Get business cards - I think Rover still gives out some FREE business cards for newbies. See https://www.rover.com/community/quest... Ask the vet you work with if you can leave some of your cards at the desk (provided your vet doesn't also provide competing dog boarding services).
When you do start getting clients, go above and beyond ...
Price, low ball the market and there is a %of the population that will always value price above all else and you will start getting requests. This may sound cold and counterproductive, however now you have people reviewing you and as long as you keep your stats up the Rover alto will keep your name high on the list.
At this point you will be tiered and cranky because you will feel like you have given away your time for 30-60 days but now you have clients and hopefully Rocer’s IT working for you.
Finally Jack up your rates to well above the median rate, and have a plan to keep up with inflation. Your client type will change from those price focused owners to owners who are more discerning. And you will be competing for business with The Walt’s of the wOrld.
My belief is you have to walk into this basically giving away your service to build a reputation and client base. (Side note Rover could do so much more to prevent impoverished newbies) Giving it away I consider where people are charging less than 45/night (Do the math you are not making min wage)
However once you look like mother Teresa with all of your feedback and you are showing at the top of the list you start trying to get compensated for the level of effort you are actually putting in. ;)
For most sitters bookings don't happen for a while, for some it may take months. Boarding is the most sought-after service on the platform and your calendar availability may hurt you in attracting clients. Also, take and pass the Rover 101 quiz, it is important. Your pictures aren't very good and that's what helps you stand out. And finally, you need to ask more friends and family to leave testimonials as the one you have isn't enough. Best of luck
Thank you so much!