You will hear a lot of people talking about establishing boundaries within your business. You might think that this does not apply to you. However, it is important for all VAs to set their boundaries from the outset.

To identify your boundaries, think about what you are and are not prepared to do.

To give you some ideas, ask yourself these questions:

Will you offer round-the-clock service?
If you do, you should have systems in place to be able to accept and complete work 24 hours a day. Some VAs make this their unique selling point (USP), which sets them apart from others.

Will you speak to family and friends if they call during the day?
Family and friends can be the worst offenders for distraction to those who work at home. They may feel that, as you work at home, they can call you any time for a chat or pop in for a coffee. Tell people what your working hours are, and explain that you cannot speak to them if they call during those times.

Will you be working only certain hours?
When you have decided what your business hours are, make sure that you inform all prospective clients. Some clients might call five minutes before your designated finishing time, asking you to do work for them the following day. Provided that you can fit the work in, advise them that you will start the work as early as possible the next day.

What will your work turnaround time be?
You need to decide in advance what turnaround time you work towards for routine tasks so that you can inform all prospective clients. For example, I say that I will respond to all email correspondence within 24 hours and all routine work will be completed within 48 hours.

Will you be working 52 weeks a year?
Decide in advance whether you want to take a holiday. If so, let your clients know that you will not be available during those weeks, or that their work will be passed to an associate while you are away.

Do you want a ‘term-time only’ business?
If you have a family, you may choose to work only during term time and spend the school holidays with your children. Again, should inform your clients in advance that you will be unavailable, or that their work will be passed to an associate during school holidays.

By establishing your boundaries early on, you can inform new clients and make it clear to friends and family how you operate.

You must remember that you are the boss of your own business and it is your prerogative to say, ‘No’.