As freelancers, you learn to juggle a lot; you are constantly balancing irregular hours, managing demanding clients and trying to actually have a life outside of work. While freelancing offers flexibility – because you ARE your business – and the nature of hairdressing is so personal, it can also make it challenging to set clear boundaries, let alone enforce them.
Let’s take a look at the different types of boundaries and how to set them.
One of the biggest challenges freelancers face is drawing a line between work and personal life, especially if you have flexible hours. It’s so important to set ‘working hours’ for yourself, where you commit to not responding to client messages or scheduling appointments outside these times. Utilise tech where you can – consider a booking system, having autoresponders or setting up a waitlist link if you’re fully booked. Also, set your phone to ‘Do Not Disturb’ in the evenings, so you can really switch off and wind down.
We’ve all had clients whose behaviour makes us anxious, whether they’re always late, constantly reschedule or ‘forget’ their card and force us into the role of a reluctant debt collector. Setting boundaries around client behaviour ensures everyone feels respected. For example, create clear policies for cancellations, rescheduling and no-shows, and be sure to communicate these policies upfront. Having these in place will repel clients who’d be likely to do these things, whist attracting clients who value clear communication.
We know the drill – a client books in for something simple, and then in the chair they decide they want a full colour correction. Or, they’re booked in for the full shebang, but decide during the appointment that they only want a root touch-up. We either oblige and then feel rushed and run behind for our next client, or we do the smaller service and miss out on the income we expected to make that day.
This is why I introduced a ‘change of mind’ policy, where I explained that any reduction in services within 48 hours of the visit would result in the original price being upheld. I also changed my reminder text and email to state that only the agreed service was booked, and any amendments needed to be made at least 48 hours in advance. The key to successful boundaries is to stick to your guns. I always say, “If you aren’t enforcing your policies, you don’t have them.”
It’s natural to feel uneasy about saying “no”, especially when clients push against your boundaries, but having a polite yet firm response prepared can often ease the tension. For example, “I’d love to help, but I’m fully booked this week, how is next Wednesday?” is a kind way to reinforce your availability.
Boundaries can feel uncomfortable at first, but they ultimately help you attract clients who respect your time. Sticking to your policies helps you build a loyal clientele that value your professionalism and respect your limits.
Boundaries aren’t rigid walls; they’re a way of protecting your energy and time to allow you to serve clients to the best of your ability. By setting clear boundaries, you’re creating a foundation for a balanced, sustainable and thriving business where you can show up for your clients 100%.
