Setting Your Boundaries With Clients.
Boundaries. The topic that we sometimes don’t want to talk about, but ultimately we have to.
It’s happened to just about all of us, no matter what industry you’re in. Some examples
Client asks for a discounted rate, because they’re a new business, don’t have the funds, they’re a friend of a friend, etc.
Turn-around times that are unrealistic (typically we have other tasks we are handling aside from yours)
Receiving text messages from clients during off hours and in general!
Usually, the client doesn’t do this intentionally, but your feelings are still there. You feel burnt out and annoyed, and you realize it’s not intentional, but those feelings are valid. Please don’t blame yourself, people will test you all of the time! It’s inevitable, people will see how much they can get out of you if you allow them to. It’s up to you to set the appropriate boundaries in any situation you encounter in your regular life AND with your clients.
Instead of getting frustrated with the client, take a look at your protocols and how you run your business. Rules and guidelines cannot be enforced if there aren’t any! Remember that. If you don’t set guidelines that abide by your boundaries, then your client will not respect them, because they don’t exist. And don’t be afraid to remind them if they do try to push the envelope a tad.
Some things you can do to avoid these issues…
- Review your contract, and have the client sign off on individual rules so they are even more aware, instead of just skimming through.
- Review your process when you work together, do you have deadlines in place for yourself and for the client?
- Don’t be afraid to deny business with someone! If it doesn’t feel right, then it most likely isn’t.
When you set boundaries you’re taking so much pressure off of yourself you didn’t realize you had. You can relax knowing your systems are set in place, and have a resentment-free work environment. If you’re feeling stuck with where and how to get started in your business – let’s work together to solidify those boundaries for you and how we can elevate your business and your brand with a holistic approach in mind.
