How do you all handle a client who hovers over your shoulder the entire time you're working? I try to be polite, but it's hard to focus with someone breathing down my neck.

Field Service Insights & Best Practices
1

This has happened to me a couple of times, and it’s frustrating. Clients seem to want to monitor every little thing.

I’ve attempted to establish some boundaries, but it usually falls flat. Constant interruptions really slow down the work process.

2

I charge hourly, so when clients hover and slow me down, they’re paying for it. I tell them this upfront. Amazing how quickly they find something else to do once they realize interruptions cost money. Works way better than asking nicely.

3

Some clients just want to be involved all the time.

4

I suggest clients find something else to focus on while I work. They often hover out of boredom.

If that approach doesn’t help, I explain how interruptions slow down progress. No one wants to pay more for delays.

5

Yeah, happens all the time. I just tell them the job takes longer when I get distracted.

6

Tell them upfront before starting: you work faster and make fewer mistakes when you can focus. Most clients back off once you explain it like that. If they keep hovering, stop and ask what’s bugging them about the work. Handle their concerns, then ask for space to do the job right.

7

Just tell them you need to focus or things might go wrong. Usually works.

8

I’ve dealt with this countless times. Turn it into a scheduling thing.

I say “I work best in flow state. How about I work for 45 minutes, then show you what I’ve done?”

Most clients are cool with this because:

  • They get regular updates
  • They feel included
  • You actually get work done

If they resist, I mention interruptions make the job take longer and cost more. That works.

Some clients hover because other freelancers burned them before. Once they see you know your stuff, they back off and give you space.

9

Had a client who did this constantly. Made me so nervous I kept screwing up.

I set up a chair across the room and said “feel free to sit there if you want to watch, but I need space to work properly.” Then I’d update them every 15-20 minutes.

Most clients hover because they’re bored or stressed about the project. Give them small tasks - “can you grab those documents from your filing cabinet” or “mind double checking these numbers while I work on the next section?”

Keeps them busy and involved without breathing down your neck.