The Perfect Client is a Myth

Think back to a time in your life when you had just started a new dating relationship, Mr. or Ms. Right could do no wrong and you were completely blinded by infatuation. Fast forward 6 months and the unique laugh and adorable tendencies are more annoying than cute. Over time we discover traits in a potential partner that we like and dislike; let's face it, no one is perfect, so clearly knowing those likes/dislikes is a vital part finding the right fit. In a business relationship it's just as important to be able to clearly identify your ideal client. Now some might say that any business is good business, but let's be honest we've all had those clients who continually drain our resources and expect us to deliver $100,000 worth of service on a $20,000 budget. According to BizJournals.com there are several items that are crucial for a viable business relationship:

1. Have we clarified our relationship?
2. Do we have a clear vision of what we want to accomplish?
3. Have we developed goals?
4. Do we share a commitment to these goals?
5. Have we defined our individual roles and responsibilities?
6. Have we determined the resources we'll need?
7. Are we mutually accountable for our actions?
8. Have we established a sense of trust and respect?
9. Can we talk openly about problems or different points of view?
10. Are we learning from each other?
11. Are we challenging each other?
12. How are we evaluating our creation?
13. Are we celebrating small successes?
14. How can we improve our success?
15. Are we each proud to be associated with one another?

Give and take, win-win whatever you want to call it, before a relationship can be successful these parameters must be defined. In the end, what you'll find is not "The Perfect Client," but rather a long-lasting mutual relationship that delivers value to both your business and your customer.