The Art of Setting Boundaries in Professional Relationships: Consider this email...
In the intricate tapestry of professional relationships, we often find ourselves walking a tightrope. On one side, there's the noble pursuit of offering support, guidance, and mentorship to others in our industry, repeatedly.
We share our time, expertise, and networks generously, driven by a passion to uplift and upskill those around us. On the other side, there's the pragmatic reality of running a business, where time is money and expertise is a commodity.
But what happens when this constant giving starts to feel one-sided? What happens when the scales of reciprocity tip too far in one direction? The answer is boundaries. We all know they are important, but what do they sound like? How do we articulate them in a way that is both professional and kind, authoritative yet respectful?
Boundaries are not just about saying 'no'. They are about valuing your time, expertise, and the services you provide. They are about ensuring fairness to all your clients and maintaining the integrity of your profession. They are about creating a balance between your personal and professional life. But more than that, they are about self-respect and self-preservation. They are about recognising that your worth is not diminished by those who fail to recognise it.
Boundaries are the kindest armoury you will ever wear.
Consider this email as a template for setting such boundaries:
Dear xxxxxx,
I have always appreciated our professional collaborations in the past and I am grateful for the trust you place in my expertise. Your request for my feedback and insights serves as a testament to the value of our professional relationship, which I cherish deeply.
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However, I wanted to address an important change in how I conduct my professional services. As my career has evolved and my responsibilities have grown, I have found it necessary to structure my time in a way that is fair to all my network/ clients and ensures the highest level of attention and dedication.
To this end, I have implemented a system where my professional feedback, advice, insights, and shared networks are offered as part of a paid service. I believe this arrangement not only ensures a dedicated time slot for our in-depth discussions but also upholds the integrity and value of the knowledge and expertise I bring to the table.
I completely understand if this arrangement may not align with your current expectations, and I would be more than happy to send you a link where you can book these professional services at your convenience.
On a personal note, our friendly chats have always been a pleasure to me. However, due to my current personal agenda, my time outside work has become quite limited. I trust you understand and respect this boundary as I navigate through my commitments.
I appreciate your understanding and respect for this shift in our professional relationship. It is my hope that we can continue to work together in a way that is mutually beneficial, respectful, and fulfilling.
This email exemplifies the art of setting boundaries. It acknowledges the value of the professional relationship and expresses gratitude for the trust placed in the sender's expertise. It then introduces a change in the way the sender conducts their professional services, explaining the reasons behind this change. The sender has evolved in their career, their responsibilities have grown, and they have found it necessary to structure their time in a way that is fair to all their clients. This change is not just about ensuring a dedicated time slot for in-depth discussions, but also about upholding the integrity and value of the knowledge and expertise they bring to the table.
Setting boundaries is not about closing doors, but about opening a path to a more respectful and fulfilling professional relationship. It's about acknowledging the value of what you bring to the table and ensuring it is recognised and respected.
So, here's a question for you to ponder: What does the free time and advice you give say about your clients that pay value rates for the very same time and expertise?
Does it reflect a mutual respect and understanding, or does it reveal an imbalance that needs to be addressed? Remember, setting boundaries is not just about protecting your time and expertise, it's about fostering healthier, more balanced professional relationships.
Dominnique Karetsos
Founding Managing Partner Goddess Gaia Ventures | PE turned VC Investor | Entrepreneur | Investor | Asian Tech Pioneer Award 2024 | Top 100 Asian Stars in UK Tech '22 | Health Equity for Women
10moDominnique Karetsos love this - it really is a milestone and eureka moment when one recognises “ all this free stuff I give you “ you are paying someone else market rates
Financial Advisor | Business Development | Partnerships | Speaker | Entrepreneur
10moThis is a great fantastic Dominnique Karetsos
Joint Executive Director, Reprieve
10moThis is excellent!