Hi @scodan . Welcome to the group. It could be that you are being a little impatient - when did you list? I would give it at least a full week to gauge any instant applications.
When are your dates ? Many sitters are not applying for sits too far in advance because of the ever changing travel restrictions.
Reaching out to sitters yourself is the most difficult way to find a sitter as the sitters you are reaching out to may not be looking at the moment - The best way is definitely to let sitters apply to you.
It will be easier for members of the forum to give you any advice if you add your listing link to your profile - Here are the instructions on how to do this.
Good Luck!