When freelancers talk to prospective clients, they’re sometimes so eager to land the assignment that they skip a crucial step – making sure the client is actually someone they want to work with.

Freelancers don’t just have to take work because it’s in front of them. They can screen and evaluate clients to see if it’s the type of work they want to be known for and the client understands and values their expertise. Not only can they evaluate prospects, but they should. Otherwise, working with an ill-suited client who wasn’t properly vetted can take longer and add unnecessary stress and possibly resentment on both sides.