New Client, Semi Last Minute Sit, "Will Pay When I Get My Paycheck"? [closed]
Okay,
So I've been at Rover for a little while and I thought I got through the growing pains of odd requests... except I just got a request (house sitting) for just "2 hours" (specifically asked for 5:45 am to 9 am) . That parts fine, I mean that is sooo early for me but it's fine.
What is weird is she said "I'm still waiting for my paycheck to clear but once it does I'll send you the money" and she has yet to confirm the booking. I accepted the booking on faith (and habit if I'm being blunt) but now I'm remembering some of the horror stories I've read about other sitters doing slightly-off-feeling bookings and then just never getting paid.
Advice? Reassurance?
UPDATE Okay, um so she canceled. So problem solved? Still I'd like any feedback you might have? Thanks
Just a thought...(in regards sitting) never accept anything on good faith, and never feel a lesser person for doing it. This is a business, and people need to respect YOUR time and choices.
A polite way to respond might be: I've received requests for the date you want. If you want it, please finalize the booking asap in order to reserve those dates.//If you get no response or an excuse let her know the dates are unavailable, and archive it.
Hi Cindy & Stephen, thanks for this response. Sometimes I get so caught up in being personable with my clients I forget that it's first and foremost a business/job.
The beauty of this job is that you can do both :) The clients you want will respect your professionalism and time, and appreciate your kindness. The clients you don't want will do neither.
Perfectly stated: "The clients you want will respect your professionalism and time, and appreciate your kindness. The clients you don't want will do neither."
I always require a confirmed booking paid in advance before I will provide my services. Don't want to risk not getting paid. Also, if they cancel you can still possibly get paid since you had time set aside for them.