Civil Working Policy
At Just Starting Out, our mission is to create a supportive, respectful space for both professionals to thrive and customers to receive great service. Whether you're booking a service or offering one, we ask that all members of our community approach their interactions with kindness, patience, and professionalism.
This Civil Working Policy sets out the expectations we hold for anyone using our platform.
- Mutual Respect
We believe that every professional and customer deserves to be treated with dignity and respect.
- Communicate clearly and courteously at all times
- Be patient and understanding — particularly if something isn't perfect first time
- Avoid rudeness, raised voices, or disrespectful language (written or spoken)
Our platform is built on the principle that positive, civil interactions lead to better outcomes for everyone.
- For Customers: Supporting New Professionals
Many of the professionals on Just Starting Out are brand new to business. They may be building their confidence, portfolio, and experience. While they are committed to doing their best, please remember.
- They may be learning how to manage clients, bookings, or feedback
- They may still be refining their systems and service delivery
- Kind, constructive communication goes a long way
Where possible, we kindly encourage you to support their growth by offering a review, rating, testimonial, or permission to share images of the completed work (with your consent). This can make a genuine difference to a new business owner at the very beginning of their journey.
- For Professionals: Building Trust Through Communication
As a professional, you represent yourself and your business every time you engage with a customer. Please ensure that you:
- Communicate clearly and respond in a timely manner
- Turn up on time (or give reasonable notice if plans need to change)
- Own any mistakes and offer a solution respectfully
- Treat all customers with kindness, regardless of age, background, or circumstance
Remember: You're just starting out, and learning is part of the process , but how you treat people will always leave a lasting impression.
- Zero Tolerance for Abuse
We have a zero-tolerance policy for abusive, threatening, or discriminatory behaviour. This applies to all users of the platform.
If a situation arises that becomes uncomfortable, unsafe, or hostile, please let us know so we can review it (complaints@juststartingout.co.uk). Continued breaches may result in removal from the platform.
- A Kindness-First Approach
We're proud to be building a platform rooted in fairness, encouragement, and opportunity. By agreeing to this Civil Working Policy, you help us maintain a community where everyone feels respected and valued.
Let's all play a part in creating a better experience for new businesses and the people who support them.
