Today, we're diving into a topic that's as crucial as it is often overlooked - setting boundaries in our bustling world of reels, posts, and DMs. Let's get real: managing social media can sometimes feel like a 24/7 job, but it's vital to draw the line to prevent burnout and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
So, grab your favourite coffee, and let's chat about setting boundaries!
The Importance of Boundaries
Before we dive into the 'how,' let's talk about the 'why.' Boundaries are your invisible armour. They protect your time, your energy, and your sanity. Without them, you're like a ship without an anchor – easily swayed by the tides of client demands and last-minute requests.
I learned this the hard way.
Picture this: endless notifications, round-the-clock posting, and saying 'yes' to every request. I was the go-to person for all things social, but I was also on the fast track to burnout city.
It took a serious toll on my health and well-being before I realized that not setting boundaries wasn't just unprofessional; it was unsustainable.
That's when I learned to not just set boundaries but to enforce them. It wasn't easy, especially for a people-pleaser like me, but it was necessary.
Key Boundaries to Set
Working Hours: Just because social media never sleeps, doesn't mean you shouldn't. Set specific working hours and communicate them to your clients. Example: "I'm available from 9 AM to 5 PM, Monday to Friday. I'll respond to any messages or emails received outside these hours on the next business day."
Last-Minute Requests: While flexibility is a virtue, last-minute requests can disrupt your workflow. Establish a policy for how you handle them. Example: "For any requests with less than 48 hours' notice, I'll do my best to accommodate, but I can't guarantee availability due to prior commitments."
Posting Limits: Set a cap on the number of posts you'll create per day or week. This maintains quality and prevents overwhelm. Example Script: "Based on our agreement, I'll curate and post up to X posts per week. Any additional content will need to be discussed and planned in advance."
Communication Preferences: Whether you prefer emails, calls, or texts, make it clear how and when clients can reach you. Example Script: "I prefer communication via email for record-keeping and efficiency. I'm available for calls by appointment."
Bringing Up Boundaries in Onboarding
Setting boundaries starts from day one. During the onboarding process, be upfront about your working style and limits. It's not just about laying down the law; it's about setting the stage for a respectful, professional relationship. Use the onboarding session to discuss your boundaries, provide clear documentation, and most importantly, listen to their needs and expectations. It's a two-way street, after all!
Navigating Boundary Oversteps: Scripts and Scenarios
1. Scenario: Client Contacts You Outside Working Hours
Script: "Hi [Client's Name], I hope you're doing well. I wanted to remind you that my working hours are from 9 AM to 5 PM, Monday to Friday. I'll be sure to address your message first thing when I'm back in the office!"
Why It Works: This response acknowledges the client's message without engaging in immediate work. It gently reminds them of your working hours and sets the expectation for when they'll hear back from you. If you are an anxious person like me, this works great so you aren't worried about responding to their message for the rest of the night.
2. Scenario: Client Requests a Last-Minute Post
Script: "Hello [Client's Name], thank you for reaching out. As per our agreement, I require a 48-hour notice for new content to ensure quality and alignment with our strategy. While I understand the urgency, I may not be able to accommodate this request on such short notice. Let's schedule a time to discuss future urgent needs and how we can better prepare for them."
Why It Works: This script is firm yet flexible. It reminds the client of your prior agreement while showing your willingness to discuss how to handle similar situations in the future.
3. Scenario: Client Exceeds Posting Limits
Script: "Hi [Client's Name], I noticed that we've exceeded the agreed-upon number of posts for this week. To maintain the quality and strategy of our content, let's stick to our original plan of X posts per week. If you'd like to increase the frequency, we can certainly discuss a new arrangement."
Why It Works: You’re reinforcing the agreed-upon limits and opening the door for renegotiation if the client wants more content. You may not always have post number limits ( we don't), but this can be used for other scenarios like engagement, graphics, and messages.
4. Scenario: Client Ignores Communication Preferences
Script: "I appreciate you reaching out. To keep our communication streamlined and efficient, I would prefer if we could stick to emails, as previously agreed. This helps in keeping a better track of our conversations and decisions. Thank you for understanding!"
Why It Works: You’re reaffirming your preferred communication channel while explaining its benefits, and encouraging the client to adhere to it.
Setting boundaries as a social media manager isn't just about saying 'no'; it's about saying 'yes' to a more balanced, fulfilling professional life. Remember, boundaries are not barriers; they're the guidelines that lead to better business relationships and personal well-being.
Ready to set those boundaries and soar in your social media career? Join our 'Rising Social Media Managers' for beginners or 'Social Media CEO Collective' for seasoned professionals. Together, we'll navigate the social media landscape with confidence and poise! (COMING SOON!)