1. Set your boundaries in a respectful way
Say clearly what you can and cannot do within your range of tasks. That's not unwillingness, that's professionalism. A calm, friendly explanation ("That isn't part of my tasks, but I can…") prevents misunderstandings and overload.
2. Speak up about problems early
Is something bothering you, or is a boundary being crossed? Don't wait. Raise it in good time with your consultant/office. Small irritations are easy to resolve; accumulated frustrations much less so.
3. Be alert to inappropriate behaviour
Unwanted advances, aggression or demeaning remarks are never part of the deal. Never. This isn't part of the job and you don't have to put up with it just to "avoid making a fuss". Always report it to your office: we'll look for a solution together and, if necessary, the collaboration with that client will end.
4. Take short mental breaks
Standing up for a minute, taking a few deep breaths, looking out of the window between two tasks. Such micro-breaks sound small, but they lower your stress level and help you get through the day, both physically and mentally.
5. Plan your work realistically
Decide in advance on a workable order for your tasks. What is a priority, what could wait until next time? A clear structure gives you control over your day instead of the other way round, and that control is one of the strongest buffers against stress.
6. Make sure there's enough variety
Combine heavy tasks with lighter ones. After mopping or the bathroom, do some ironing or tidying: that way you spread both the physical and the mental load across your working day instead of piling everything up.
7. Ask for help when you need it
You're not on your own, even though you work alone. In case of emotional strain, a difficult client relationship or a conflict, you can always ask your consultant or the prevention advisor for support. Asking for help is a sign of professionalism, not of weakness.
8. Respect your own pace
Don't let yourself be rushed by a client who expects a lot in little time. Thorough work takes time. Are the expectations structurally unrealistic? Let your office know, and together we'll make clear agreements with the client. Realistic agreements are part of a healthy working relationship.
9. Watch out for signs of stress or overload
Sleeping problems, continuing to worry about work, irritability, ongoing fatigue: these are signals that it's becoming too much. Take them seriously and raise the alarm in time. The sooner you speak up, the smaller the adjustment needed.
10. Build positive communication with clients
A friendly chat on arrival, a clear agreement about what will happen that day, a short explanation of why something takes more time: it prevents a lot of conflicts. Good communication is the basis of mutual respect and of a client relationship that keeps running well for years.
You're not on your own
At TRIXXO Service Vouchers, your consultant is your fixed point of contact. Do you have a question, a difficult situation or a client you don't feel comfortable with? Call your office or drop by. For psychosocial matters, you can also turn to our prevention advisor or confidential counsellor.