Script: Responding to a Friend Request from a Current or Former Client

A practitioner requires professional.

When a current or former client sends a social media friend request, it presents a common but delicate challenge. Ignoring the request risks leaving the client feeling confused or rejected, while accepting it can compromise the professional frame of your work together. A clear and consistent policy is essential, but communicating it requires care.

This directive offers a way to respond that is both clear and warm, turning a potentially awkward moment into a constructive one. The client is left with a better understanding of the professional nature of your connection, without feeling personally dismissed.


Script: Responding to a Friend Request from a Current or Former Client

Email/Direct Message Template

Subject: Re: Your connection request

Hi [Client’s First Name],

Thank you for the friend request. I appreciate the gesture.

As a professional policy, I do not accept connection requests from current or former clients on my personal social media accounts. This is not personal; it is a standard I maintain with all clients to keep our professional relationship clearly defined and to protect your confidentiality.

[Optional: If you have a professional page, add this sentence.] If you are interested in my professional articles or updates, you are welcome to follow my public page here: [Link to professional page].

I value the work we do together.

Best,

[Your Name]

Generated with Rapport7 — rapport7.com

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