Ohh - on mine is the "I'm too busy to explain it properly, you're a pro, can't you just do it?"
While I don't need training, I do need deliverables, sign off criteria and deadlines. My view if someone isn't prepared to take their biz seriously, then neither am I.

Great article Dina! I never thought to make a list, but glad to have one started. My red flags include a lot of what you said.

Plus, if these are missing then it's a No-Go:
* Mutual Respect
* Honesty
* Attentive listening

I'm curious how procrastination = missing accountability and deadlines? I'm a master at procrastinating but I get it all done on time and am definitely accountable.

Thanks!

This is very helpful. Thanks for writing such a great resourceful article Dina

This article is very similar to a presentation I provided during the IVAA Online Summit in October 2012. I think you can still download it here http://online.ivaa.org/session-downloads

VAKitteh, you put it very nicely- 'if the client isn't prepared to take their business seriously, neither am I'. It might seem harsh to some, but it's a stance that will save tons of trouble later on.

Your point on guidance is well taken. Sharing how you work best is definitely part of the client onboarding process. I find that clients who dump projects are also trying to dump responsibility too, as in 'I never agreed to that'.

Virtual Lefty, my sense is that you've mastered your procrastination so that it doesn't hinder you. Not everyone is there yet.

I can be a big procrastinator, too, and find that when it happens it because I don't want to be accountable for the task, the deadline or the outcome. I deal with that by speaking truth to myself about my fears. Like, I am afraid and this is why. Usually I can find a way to make myself feel good/comfortable enough to get 'er done.

Take-A-Break and THVA Trish, glad you enjoyed the article. The topic is part of one of my courses on dealing with difficult clients.

I'd love to hear from others. What's a red flag for you?

Dina, procrastinating a big task right now. I'll put some thought into why; thanks for suggesting a few perspectives to consider.

Hi Lefty, glad it helped. I'm still figuring out how to work this forum so sorry for the delay.

Well written, Dina.

I've got one you can add..."my clients haven't paid me, so I can't pay you." And this is after repeated emails asking if I could finish the project early. Really?! o_O

Emailed this client's termination letter yesterday!

This is very great information Dina! I will refer back to this when I run across my "red flag client." Thanks a lot for posting Dina!

Thanks so much for posting this, Dina! Truth be told, I "casually" took on a client before I officially went into business who in retrospect had ALL SIX of those red flag attributes. Thankfully I did end the relationship-but not after 2 months of absolute agony. Unfortunately it actually had me 2nd guessing whether or not I should even consider starting my own business of this nature (in part, the manipulation she displayed) but thankfully I came to my senses and realized that I have to offer my potential clients a terrific skill set. Not to mention I have intel on her current assistant who is complaining of the same issues I had dealt with, which is comforting to know that it wasn't just something I simply could not handle. Knowing this and reading your discussion I feel comfortable in knowing what to look for in seeking out potential clients, as well as understanding when to cut the cord so to speak.

Thanks again.