I was speaking with one of my friends the other day. Among other things, we talked about how we run multiple businesses, do volunteer work, have families and still manage to keep our sanity. We also talked about how we manage our client interactions so that it all works.
Here are a few tricks I’d like to share:
1. Set Your Own Hours. Just because a client emails me in the evening or on the weekend, contrary to popular belief, it doesn’t mean that I’m required to answer them immediately. I also don’t get angry when a client emails me during these times. A perk of being a solopreneur, is that you set your own hours. I like to always be available but each client might need to be handled differently.
2. Use Technology. When I opt to work during evenings or weekends, I utilize an email delivery tool enabling me to schedule when my emails are sent. I find this approach effective as it allows me to remain discreet during off-hours while maintaining productivity. It’s empowering to be able to respond on my own schedule, ensuring that my clients receive emails at times of my choosing through the email scheduling function available in platforms like Gmail.
3. Manage Expectations. I constantly monitor my email for emergencies and quick requests, recognizing the importance of being proactive and responsive. However, I’m wary of letting this habit become a perpetual lifestyle. While I acknowledge the occasional need to start early and finish late, I prefer it not to be the norm.
The result of this is simple: My clients know what to expect while I still have plenty of time with my family and friends!