One of the most important things you can do as a remote worker is to carefully choose who you work for. Of course, it won’t be easy to say no to a job especially when you’re just starting out. It would make more sense to simply be happy with whoever comes along, right?

When you really want to push your career forward, pick only the best possible clients. You will want to be open to all kinds of tasks, but you don’t want to waste your time with nightmare incarnates. It will take only one bad employer to ruin everything you’ve achieved.

Do yourself a favour and screen clients before signing any contracts. This will spare you from headaches, worries and stress.

Figuring out your ideal client will take time and effort. You may also encounter hitches along the way but it will all be worth it in the end.

What Should You Look For?

They’re transparent

From the beginning, they make sure you’re aware of their major objectives and expected results, as well as your main tasks and duties. They’re capable of communicating their needs effectively so you’re on the same page from the get-go.

Working with professional clients can be challenging as they tend to demand for quality. It can drive you to work harder to meet their standards though. It helps build a solid foundation for a long-term partnership too.

They’re respectful

Some employers tend to have a condescending attitude towards remote workers. This is especially true for those based in a third-world country like the Philippines. You’ll want someone who treats you with respect.

The ideal client is someone who listens to your opinions and appreciates your input. They acknowledge your experience and expertise and include you in the problem-solving process. This motivates you to give them your best and even beyond that.

They’re responsive

Continuing from the previous point, a good client is someone who listens to you and is available to discuss things with you. It’s hard to work with someone who doesn’t respond to messages or answer calls. After all, how can you successfully do a project when you don’t fully understand their needs?

They’re someone who provides answers to your questions about your tasks. They give you any needed information promptly so you can deliver your work on time. They understand that two-way communication results in a good working relationship.

They’re appreciative

Clients who have a small budget for a demanding project are a no-go. They likely want to use your skills for cheap, then steal your ideas. As tempting as it might be to give a discount, don’t sell yourself short and get stuck in an endless loop of low-paying employers.

Someone who is looking for quality output, has a nice budget and values your work is the perfect person to work for. They are aware of how much effort and time is required for the type of task they’re asking for, and will reward you accordingly.

They’re trusting

Online jobs are reliant on trust. If the client doesn’t trust you, they won’t hire you or end up disappointed. If you don’t trust your client, you won’t be motivated to deliver quality results. This is why both sides should check each other’s credibility beforehand.

Get an employer who believes in you based on facts and data. They won’t feel the need to monitor your every move and instead respects your independence as a remote virtual assistant. In exchange, be disciplined and do your job even when they’re not breathing down your neck.

They’re positive

Attitude is the first thing we notice when dealing with online clients. Not all employers have a wonderful personality and everyone experiences bad days. Even so, if a potential client uses abusive or offensive language, or always tries to prove you wrong, avoid them.

Rather, go for people with good work ethic; they wouldn’t lash out even if they’re having a bad day. They’d support team members handling tough tasks, understand remote team management, and encourage those having a difficult time.

They’re upfront

You want an employer who is frank without being offensive whenever you make mistakes. They’re not afraid to express their displeasure if something doesn’t meet their expectations. Still, they remain respectful and don’t just disappear on you or refuse to pay you.

They offer constructive feedback on your work so you can improve your quality. They strive to make your professional relationship work despite issues and will give their honest opinion. They won’t wait until you’ve finished the job before they complain and ask you to redo everything.

They’re prompt

This applies not just to being punctual to meetings but in sending out payments as well. There are horror stories about remote workers waiting for months before getting paid, or receiving payment every quarter instead of monthly as originally agreed upon.

Before signing on with any client, find reviews from their previous workers to see how they do in that department. Having a high turnover is another red flag to watch out for; this could be caused by outstanding payment issues.

The traits laid out here should make for the ideal client profile for a remote virtual assistant or other types of remote workers. You can add or remove from the list as you wish. Just make it a point to work for someone or on a project that is actually worth it.