Friend, would you recognize a "good client" if you saw one?

A pulse and a checkbook should not be the only requirements.

Do you frequently accept a client you THOUGHT was going to be right for you…only to discover down the road that they’re costing you time, frustration and maybe even money?

Just like in dating, there has to be compatibility in your client relationships.

This is why it’s CRUCIAL for you to figure out early on, whether your potential client is someone who you can do your best work with—someone who energizes and inspires you.

What’s going on here?

To answer, I want to point out, first and foremost, we are all human beings… just know that the less-than-ideal client for us will be ideal for someone else.

The key is to RECOGNIZE an ideal client when you meet one, so you don’t waste time (theirs or your) forming a client relationship that will be a struggle.

Why is this important?

If you can tell early on that a potential lead is RIGHT for you, you won’t waste weeks, months or years trying to "change" them or you into something neither of you are.

There are 3 profound truths about client relationships:

1. The client you CHOOSE is the one you GET.

2. YOU are ultimately responsible for your desperation or inspiration — because you selected the client.

3. You can’t change a client or "make" them ideal. The client has their own way, based on their own internal and external needs, desires, motivations and goals.

Take a moment right now and ask yourself: “What qualities would “my ideal client” absolutely need to possess in order for me to do my best work with them?”

Be honest and don’t worry about excluding people, yet remember that qualities are not circumstances… Circumstances change, qualities rarely do.

Author's Bio: 

Learn to Inspire, Influence and Get Real Results! There is no better way to market your business and services then telling people what you do… Sharon Sayler, MBA, helps leaders, executives, and business owners inspire employees, grow companies and increase their sales by teaching them to become powerful and influential communicators. Visit www.sharonsayler.com for more great ideas and free white papers.