Every entrepreneur working one-on-one with a paying client, quickly discovers the many joys and pitfalls of running your own business. As a freelancer, you learn very early on how crucial it is to attract exactly the right type of client.

In the same way that we as freelancers differ in regards to talent, pricing, communication skills and level of professionalism, so do the clients we work with. Not all clients are created equally. There are some that will be an absolute joy to work with, many more that are pleasantly tolerable, and those dreaded loathsome few, who will turn out to be complete nightmares, no matter how much excellent service they receive.

No matter how you slice it, learning how to identify and attract only the ideal clients for your freelance business early on, can help bypass years of needless stress and frustration. Attracting the right clients isn’t that difficult, but it does demand clarity, determination and the ability to stand your ground, while projecting an outward image that’ll filter the junk from the gems.

Here are 6 actionable steps you can take today, to start attracting higher paying freelance clients for your business.