Yes, this is absolutely essential. The pet sitter needs to get to know you and of course your pet(s) in person. It is also required in order to be eligible for The Pawshake Guarantee.
This is the best way of determining whether the pet is a good match for the sitter and vice versa and to evaluate whether you and the sitter get along. A meet and greet is also the best time for you to tell the pet sitter everything about your pet and the care he or she needs.