FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
Depending on needs, expectations and travel distance, fees can vary. If I am providing care for more than a few days, I will usually negotiate a flat fee/rate, although all fees are negotiable. If your needs falls during or on a holiday, fees may be higher. From my experience, most sitters in the area charge similar fees, although mine may vary. Please be aware that I may not be willing to accept the same fee you have paid/offered other sitters and I will not accept extremely low and/or unreasonable pay. If any additional services are requested during the time I am sitting, I may not agree to provide it/them, and if I do, I may request additional payment. For new customers/clients, I may request an upfront fee/deposit. If so, that is applied to the final amount I am owed. Please remember that although I am officially an employee and you are my employer, I expect the final payment within a reasonable amount of time, that being no longer than two days after I have completed my job. If I have a key to your home, I may choose not to return your key until I have received the final payment. Although these may seem to be harsh stipulations. Everyone's time is valuable and unfortunately I have been taken advantage of before.
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
Initial contact is via the website/email. All details are discussed, such as dates/times, location, needs/expectations and fees. Speaking via phone is also an option. If both the customer/client and I feel comfortable that I seem to be a good fit and can meet their needs, I prefer to meet them and who I am caring for (pet(s), child/ren, senior). If both or either of us prefer our first meet and greet to be in a public place, I am more than willing to accommodate that request. Sometimes we plan our initial visit to be at their home. In this instance I let them know that I may bring someone along with me. If our initial visit is in a public place, and we both feel comfortable and that I may be a good fit, then I do request a meet and greet at their home. At this time being able to meet whom I am caring for, their environment, needs, etc. will be discussed at this time. I do ask the customer/client to write down all pertinent information such as routine (food, meds, etc.), and any specific details such as allergies, etc. For pets I like to have the vet's name and contact information, children or seniors, doctor's name and contact information, any additional contact information for the customer/client, and emergency contact information, including someone local. I keep the customer/client informed and updated, sometimes send pictures, especially if requested. I make sure I am available by phone, text and email and will answer in a reasonable amount of time. If hired, I will provide a copy of my DL to the customer/client.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Please refer to my introduction. I am always happy to provide additional information or answer any questions.