I was speaking with one of my friends the other day. Among other things, we talked about how we run businesses, 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 tips I’d like to share:
1. Use a Calendar
I don’t know where I would be without at least one calendar! Whether that is a digital calendar you can access from your phone or a paper planner you carry with you, you absolutely need something to help you plan your day.
Having a calendar allows you to see what is happening, when and where, block off time for work, appointments, events, birthdays, or whatever you need to keep track of. This is one of my favorite tools for managing my schedule.
2. Set Your Own Hours
Just because a client emails me in the evening or on the weekend, doesn’t mean that I’m required to answer them immediately. I get to set my working hours. I also don’t get angry when a client emails me during these times, all it means is that THEY are working and I’m grateful that they’re putting work into my queue.
3. Use Technology
When I want to work in the evening or weekend, I use an email delivery tool that allows me to schedule when my emails will be sent. I find this effective because I can “stay under the radar” during evenings and weekends, but still be productive. It’s great to be able to respond on my schedule, while making sure my client receives my email at a time of my choice by using the email scheduling function available in email accounts like Gmail.
4. Manage Expectations
When I start working with a new client, I set expectations in the beginning. I let them know when I’m usually at my desk. I answer emails within 24 hours. I’m always monitoring my email for emergencies and quick requests, and while I understand there are times when it’s important to start early and work late, I just don’t want it to be a way of life.
The result of this is simple: My clients know what to expect. I still have plenty of time with my family and maintain a healthy work-life balance.