We’ve all been there. When you have a pushy client with unrealistic expectations who wants you to do tasks that are beyond your scope of work. You may even feel stuck in this situation and wonder how to even get out of it. Try not to stress as this is a common issue that many contractors and businesses face.

The good news is that you have the power to take control of the situation and set boundaries that work for you. As a virtual assistant, your role is to help your clients with their administrative tasks and make sure their business runs smoothly. However, it’s important to strike a balance between being helpful and not letting yourself be taken advantage of.

So, let me share some helpful tips on how to set boundaries as a virtual assistant and maintain a healthy working relationship with your clients.

• Set Clear Expectations

Before you start working with a new client, it’s important to set clear expectations for what you will and won’t do. This includes outlining your hours of availability, the types of tasks you’re comfortable with, and the response time for emails or phone calls. Make sure you communicate these expectations clearly and have the client agree to them before you begin working together.

• Communicate Your Limits

As a virtual assistant, it’s important to know your limits and communicate them to your clients. If a client requests a task that is outside of your expertise, let them know that it’s not something you’re comfortable with. If a client asks you to work outside of your regular hours, let them know that you’re unavailable and provide them with a timeframe for when you will be available.

• Be Firm but Polite

Setting boundaries can be difficult, but it’s important to be firm but polite when communicating them to your clients. Let them know that while you’re happy to help them, there are certain limits that you need to adhere to. Use “I” statements to communicate your needs, such as “I can’t work outside of my regular hours” or “I’m not comfortable completing that task.”

• Don’t Take It Personally

Sometimes clients may push back when you set boundaries. It’s essential to remember that this isn’t a personal attack on you. Clients may have their reasons for wanting certain tasks completed or wanting you to work outside of your regular hours. Stick to your boundaries and communicate your needs clearly, but don’t take it personally if a client doesn’t agree with them.

• Stay Consistent

Once you’ve set your boundaries with a client, it’s essential to stay consistent with them. If you’ve communicated that you’re unavailable outside of your regular hours, don’t respond to emails or phone calls during that time. If you’ve let a client know that you’re not comfortable completing a certain task, don’t change your mind and agree to do it later. Staying consistent with your boundaries is key to maintaining a healthy working relationship with your clients.

In conclusion, setting boundaries with your clients is an essential part of being a virtual assistant. Communicating your limits, being firm but polite, and staying consistent with your boundaries will help you maintain a healthy working relationship with your clients. Remember to set clear expectations from the beginning and don’t take it personally if a client pushes back. By setting boundaries, you can create a working relationship that is productive, respectful, and enjoyable for both you and your clients.

For those virtual assistants seeking guidance and mentorship in the field, SAGE offers a comprehensive range of services tailored to meet the unique needs of their businesses. If you’re looking for a business coach to launch your business or start-up, schedule a free consultation here.  With an impressive array of clients who have witnessed remarkable improvements in their own businesses, SAGE Business Coaching has established itself as an industry leader and a valuable resource for virtual assistants.