Especially if you're offering “Unlimited Access” via email, messenger, or Voxer!
When your business grows
And all of a sudden
You have more than a handful of high-ticket clients who have direct access to you, via email/ WhatsApp/ Voxer
This is why It's so important to set reasonable expectations!
In fact, I'm a huge fan of setting expectations, because “boundary setting” (which often lands harsh with the client) doesn't need any “teeth” to be effective.
You can gently remind them of the expectations you established and that they agreed to.
For a further deep dive into the complexities of navigating client dynamics, check out this post.
But for the quick and dirty verbiage, you can use to make sure clients are not going to be in your inboxes day and night?
See below the exact words I've used over the years, to curb unreasonable expectations… so I could experience the uninterrupted family time and freedom that made me start my business in the first place!
Voxer/Direct Access Etiquette
Most people message you with a voice note once or twice a week for an exchange.
Their request is that your messages are about one minute long.
If it's a two-step question, record two quick messages, so she can record two answers.
Remember that the Voxer support isn't there for you to verbal process, it's there to ask specific questions.
If you accidentally slip into verbal processing mode (it happens!), by all means, let it rip, but don't expect Merel to listen.
Put your minute long-ish message right underneath.
Your reply time is usually within 48 business hours.
If they missed your message and you're not getting a timely reply (within that same week, or within 48 business hours), just ping them, to make your message pop to the top!
_____________________
Fun fact?
Exquisite clarity around expectations actually makes your clients feel safe!
They don't have to wonder how to behave, what's acceptable, and what goes overboard.
And you just confirmed your premium positioning (your time is valuable)!