I finally stopped saying yes to every client call

I thought being always available would get me more work. Now I batch calls on two days and my focus is way better. How do you handle client communication without it eating your day?

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3 Comments

avery3057mo ago

Did you ever find yourself taking calls during dinner just because a client emailed? I used to jump on every call like it was a fire drill, even for stuff that could wait. Like that time a client wanted to chat at 8 PM about a logo color change that wasn't due for weeks. Batching calls is a game changer, it's like putting up a do not disturb sign on your brain. Now I tell clients my call hours upfront, and they actually respect it.

10

hannahm197mo ago

Actually strict call hours can backfire with certain clients in my experience. Some of my best projects came from being flexible when others weren't available. If a major client has an urgent issue at 8 PM, ignoring it until morning can really hurt the relationship. Sure, most things can wait, but you have to judge each situation. Setting those hard boundaries might work for some, but it feels like it could limit opportunities.

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lindat417mo ago

I learned to keep my phone on for true emergencies from key clients. It showed I valued their business without letting every small question ruin my evening. Over time they started to respect my daytime hours more.

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