I Won’t Work with Clients Who Don’t Agree with My Values
I put a values statement on my sales pages to create a professional boundary
I first saw an entrepreneur put her values statement in big, bold, bright letters on Courtney Chaal’s course landing page.
Of course, since her business is a bit different from mine, she had a few different parameters. (And when I went looking for it again to write this, I discovered she expanded her statement!)
In no uncertain terms: she will not work with businesses in specific niches, selling certain products she believes are harmful — or products she has no way of knowing you’re licensed or qualified to sell. And she will not work with anyone who uses racist, homophobic, fatphobic, or other discriminatory language.
It inspired me.
So I wrote a values statement for my business, Tina Teaches English.
I thought about how I hope to scale my business… And that type of growth will require policies in place to protect what I’ve built.
Why I Need Professional Boundaries
I’m not just selling products, digital or physical. I’m selling real-time advice, insights, and conversations with me — whether it’s a one-on-one or group call… or even written feedback. I develop working relationships — and occasionally friendships — with my clients.
I need structures in place to keep me safe.
I have not yet been harassed by a client, but I’ve trashed many Instagram message requests to my business account that would fit the description… Or likely escalate to a harass-y situation given the chance.
There has also been a client — or three — who seemed to enjoy my coaching before suddenly dropping off the face of the earth… Right after I (calmly) pushed back against a racist or sexist statement.
My Values Statement
I’m sure this will change a bit over time — especially if I find myself in situations that I realize need to be covered by a general disclaimer.
“As a business owner and professional coach, I — Tina — cannot separate myself from my values.
