Here are some concrete steps you can take:

1. Respect Your Schedule. If a client emails me in the evening or on the weekend, I don’t have to answer them immediately. I am the boss of my working hours. Once I verify there is no emergency, I can schedule my reply. Now, this doesn’t mean I get annoyed if a client emails me during my scheduled downtime. Far from it!  They are probably working with the schedule that is best for them, and I’m always excited to see work pop into my queue!

2. Use Technology. I prefer not to work in the evening, or on weekends, so I use an email delivery tool that allows me to schedule when certain emails will automatically be sent. This means I can focus on other projects during my downtime and still be productive. Software collections like G-suite offer this type of smart feature that is great for interacting with clients at times of my choosing. 

3. Above All: Manage Expectations. When working with a new client, it is useful to set expectations from the beginning. For instance, I let my clients know that my business hours usually run from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday to Friday. I also let them know that I answer emails within 24 hours. Don’t get me wrong; there are certainly times when early starts and late endings are par for the course. So I keep an eye out for the odd emergency or urgent request popping into my inbox. However, I find it important (and helpful) to communicate that I don’t want work emergencies to turn into my workstyle.

Take these steps now to make sure your clients understand your workstyle and know what to expect. As a bonus, you get to enjoy business on your terms!