Building solid relationships
Solid businesses are built on solid relationships. One of the best tools that a creative business–or any business for that matter–has is the ability to say "no". Not all relationships are meant to be. The design consumer may have a different view of the value of your work than you do. Maybe you question the ethics of their products or services or there is a personality conflict. Whatever the reason, by saying "no" you are doing them and yourself a favor. They can find a designer that is on the same page as them and you can focus your efforts on your valued clients.

After you have chosen a client, try to view your relationship as one of strategic business partners rather than the client/service provider relationship. This will help with the mindset of trying to accomplish the same goals to benefit one another and foster long term relationships, rather than the old mind set where you provide a one time service and they sign a check.

Your new relationship also needs a foundation, and that foundation is the Creative Brief. The Creative Brief lays the groundwork for each project, establishes objectives and can resolve disagreements. Refer to the Recommended Readings section for books on creating a design brief.