Boundaries are the foundation of a strong, professional relationship with your clients. Too often, we let small issues slide out of fear of losing business—but in reality, failing to set clear expectations early on only leads to bigger challenges down the road. The key? Define your boundaries from the start and stick to them. Here are six essential steps to help you establish firm yet professional boundaries with your clients.
1. Outline the Your Product and/or Services in Your Proposal and Contract
Clearly outline the services you offer (or the details of your product) in both your proposal and contract. This ensures expectations are set from the start and provides a reference point if you need to reinforce boundaries after the contract is signed.
2. Ensure Your Systems and Processes Are In Place Before You Begin
Establish clear systems and processes before onboarding clients to maintain control over your workflow. Without them, clients may attempt to dictate how things are done, making it harder to enforce boundaries.
3. Plan and Schedule Structured Discussions from the Start
Schedule structured conversations in advance to discuss key milestones, needs, and potential challenges. Set clear start and end times to maintain control of the discussion, and use a predefined agenda to keep the conversation focused and productive.
4. Define and Stand By Your Hours of Operation
Clearly define your hours of operation in your proposal, contract, website, and Google listing—and most importantly, honor them. Setting this boundary means refraining from responding to emails, texts, or calls outside of your designated working hours, including late nights and days off.
5. Address “Scope Creep” As Soon As It Occurs
Handle scope creep as soon as it arises by addressing any client requests that go beyond the agreed-upon services. If you choose to take on additional work, ensure the client approves and pays for it before you begin. Alternatively, refer them to another contractor if the request falls outside your offerings. Either way, set clear boundaries—your time and expertise should never be given away for free.
6. Place a “Buffer” Between You and the Client
When it comes to the contract, payments, and onboarding, consider delegating or outsourcing the tasks. Weddings are such an emotional project, so it can be less awkward if the person providing the service is not the same person negotiating the contract or collecting money.
Love and Soul Always, Kawania
Photo: Natarsha Wright Photography
