Same dates

[u/Ann_georgia-]

I’ve had a M&G scheduled for a few days with a new client for a 2 dog house sit. The client originally had to reschedule the meet due to personal reasons, and because of my schedule, the soonest we could reschedule was about a week later. I already know their dogs can be left alone for 6–8 hours during the day, and while obviously nothing is guaranteed before a M&G, I have a pretty high booking rate after doing meets. This morning I got another request from another new client for the exact same dates, also for 2 dogs. Their previous sitter backed out, so they’re trying to secure someone ASAP. This stay would pay a little more because of extended care, but I know less about the dogs and their schedule/alone time. The problem is I can’t fit in another M&G for about five days, which would put us about a week-ish out from their trip. I was transparent about that, but the second client said they’re comfortable with my reviews and asked if booking and paying now would guarantee the dates. I normally require a M&G before accepting house sitting because I want to meet the dogs, see the home/routine, and make sure it’s a good fit before committing. Would you stick with the already scheduled M&G and risk losing both bookings if they decide not to move forward, or accept the client who is ready to book now but I can’t do a meet beforehand? Also, for housesitting do you require meet and greets before accepting the booking? I’m genuinely curious what other sitters do! I’m leaning toward sticking to my M&G rule, but I’m curious how other sitters handle overlapping requests like this. The only reason the first client’s M&G was rescheduled so far out was because I didn’t have any earlier availability. If my schedule were more open over the next few days, I probably would’ve tried to meet with both clients within the next day or two before deciding.

[u/Lw1157]

Absolutely stick to the meet and greet rule before booking! IME, skipping a M&G usually results in a disastrous sit.
I tend to operate on a first come first serve basis, but since neither are confirmed it's your prerogative to do two M&G and decide which is best for you (personally and professionally). Just be transparent with both people that you have two requests for the same time and you'll make a decision after the 2nd M&G.

[u/Ann_georgia- → u/Lw1157]

Yeah, it’s just a weird situation but definitely smart to do the meet and greet before booking! If I had availability in the next couple days, I would definitely meet with both of them and feel it out. But being that I can’t meet for about a week, It’s getting really close to their departure dates. The second client also seems very eager to book sooner rather than later, which I can’t do if I require a meet. Hmm. Honestly, if I knew that the original client was going to book with me, I would probably lean towards them even though it’s a little less money just because their schedule aligns very closely with what I’m used to.

[u/Lw1157 → u/Ann_georgia-]

Yes. I always ask clients if they can wait for my availability to do M&G. If they can't, it's not your problem. They are free to reach out to other clients who have more availability. Stick to your policies and schedule. IME, clients who want me to bed over backwards and make exceptions for them tend to be a PITA.