Question:
My manager texts me work questions after hours and on weekends. I want to set boundaries, but I’m worried about appearing unresponsive. How can I handle this professionally without damaging our relationship?”
Answer:
Great question! First of all, you’re not alone—many employees face this same dilemma. The key is to set clear but kind boundaries early on.
Try responding with something friendly yet direct, like:
“Thanks for reaching out! I’ll look into this first thing tomorrow morning when I’m back online.”
If this continues, you might want to have a brief, honest chat with your manager. Something like:
“I’m happy to support you, but I also need to disconnect after work hours to recharge. Could we agree on some expectations for after-hours communications?”
Most managers will respect clear, professional communication around boundaries—and might even appreciate the reminder to unplug themselves! Remember, setting healthy boundaries doesn’t make you unprofessional; it makes you sustainable.
I hope this helps.
Note: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Always consult with a legal professional for advice specific to your situation.
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