Time is the one thing we don't get back. You can always find a way to make money, but you cannot get time back. Here’s a list of ideas to make the most of your time:
Take Control of Your Calendar
Use a calendar appointment app like Calendly and enter in your “appointment times.” This way a client will schedule their time with you instead of being worried about calling you at the wrong time.
It's a mark of professionalism. And it’s nice not having to worry about unknown numbers being a client calling. This also syncs to your personal calendar. So, if you have something already scheduled personally, it blocks out the time.
This doesn’t mean you never take calls from clients who need immediate help.
An appointment is for someone who has general questions or wants to learn more about working with you. I tell them, “Pick a time that works with your schedule.” This eliminates the back and forth of finding a time to schedule a call.
Make Your Office Hours Known
List your office hours in your email signature, social media profiles and even your Google Business Profile. Resist the urge to say you are “always available.” People will take advantage of that, and they'll call you any time of day over a question they have about a trip four months from now.
Of course, you would be available for your clients traveling in destination – that is something you tell them by email or on their travel documents.
Even for emails and messages, set the tone they are addressed during business hours. This boundary allows for your life outside of work and reminds others you’re a professional.
When I first started, I was “always available,” and the result was that I made mistakes because I was exhausted, and I could not focus enough.
I found that when I narrowed in on my time and made my working hours more productive and efficient, I didn't focus on everything all the time, it improved my business and sales.
Your Time Is Non-Refundable
Some people might send an email at an “off” time because that's when they remember, and they don’t want to forget to send it. It doesn't mean you have to respond right away.
You can acknowledge receipt and then let them know the next steps. Here are some examples:
- It’s a Friday night, and a client sends you flight information for ground transportation. Reply with: “Thank you for sending this to me. I will add these on Monday. Have a great weekend.”
- With quote requests, touch base with the potential client and if one comes in on the weekend, you can ask them about their planning timeline. Would they like the quote rushed or can it wait until Monday?
Invest a Day Into Setting up Automation
Automation takes a lot of time on the front end, but once it’s set up, it relieves so much stress. It is magical. It makes your life easier. You can automate emails to clients and reminders to yourself.
If you haven’t yet, look into a CRM that you can program automated emails in. We don’t get our time back, so use it wisely as you continue to grow your business.
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