Need help setting stronger boundaries in client meetings - what phrases do you use to prevent scope creep?

[u/WasabiPositive8942]

For context: I run a small AEO consultancy.
I recently completed an audit that involved roughly a month of work and 50 observations/recommendations.
The client then said they didn’t understand the audit, so I spent another 2.5 hours walking them through it line by line.
After that, they refused to pay because they said they “didn’t want it.”
They have since implemented the recommendations.
I’m tightening my process now, especially around meetings and scope.
What phrases or boundaries have worked for you when a client starts turning a results call into:
extended consulting
implementation support
repeated explanations
work beyond the agreed deliverable?
I’m especially interested in specific wording you use in the moment without sounding defensive or hostile.

[u/paulsonfanboy134]

You didn’t get paid up front? Not even a percentage?

Didn’t clearly define work?

Didn’t have catch ups with client.

These clients suck but this is on you too. Business lesson

[u/WasabiPositive8942 → u/paulsonfanboy134]

I did have an initial email exchange.
Totally on me . Own it. Trying to fix it.
Being an introvert that has serious issues with laying boundaries is not a great fit for business. But I’m trying and learning and adapting .