Finding The Perfect Match
Why and How to Choose The Clients Who Are Right For You
Business is a lot like dating. Not everyone you meet is the right match, and that's perfectly okay. In both, you're looking for someone who shares your values, respects your boundaries, and is eager to build something meaningful together.
In business, just as in life, you'll come across different types of people—some will fit effortlessly into your world, while others, no matter how hard you try, will not be a good match. And that's where the art of choosing your clients wisely comes into play.
Early in your career, it's tempting to say yes to every opportunity, even if the project isn't a good fit or the pay is low. But remember, saying yes to everything is like going on a second date with someone who showed you red flags on the first—it’s not a good idea.
Professional translators know that the key to success isn’t chasing every job but carefully selecting the ones they can do exceptionally well. Delivering a subpar job because you stretched yourself too thin or took on something outside your expertise is like showing up to a date distracted and unprepared. It won’t impress anyone, and you might not get another chance.
So, who is your ideal client? As I wrote in my book “Yes, You Can. What I Wish I Had Known Before Becoming a Financial Translator”, my perfect client is collaborative, respectful, transparent, and values quality work. They send regular projects, respect deadlines, and pay on time. These clients are like the perfect partners—they’re in it for the long haul and appreciate the hard work you put into the relationship.
Finding these ideal clients starts with screening—getting to know them before committing to any project. Ask yourself: Are they likely to become regular clients? Do they respect your time? Do they give you control over the workflow? Do they pay on time? A bad fit can cost you more than just time—it can damage your reputation.
Depending on the answers, you might adjust your terms or decide that the client isn’t the right fit after all.
In my practice at Financial Translation Hub, I don’t just sell words—I provide a professional service. That’s my business model, and it’s different from what you might find at a large translation agency or a global language service provider. I’m deeply involved in every project, ensuring that the work reflects the high standards my clients have come to expect. And because of this dedication, I’ve had the privilege of working with top-tier companies on high-profile projects around the globe.
The key to success is knowing your worth and not settling for less. Like in dating, finding the right match takes time, patience, and a clear understanding of what you want. And when you find those ideal clients, the relationship will be worth the effort.