The Clients I Work Best With (And Who I Turn Down)

Category: Fit & Filters | Estimated read time: 4 minutes

One of the most powerful things I’ve learned as a virtual Chief of Staff is this: not every founder is my person — and that’s a good thing.

I don’t say yes to everyone. I’m not trying to scale into a team of 10. I’m trying to go deep with a handful of founders who I can truly ride for — through chaos, scale, pivots, and wins.

So here’s who I work best with… and who I lovingly (but firmly) turn down.

💡 I Work Best With Founders Who…

- Are building something real (not just vibes and vaporware)
- Want a strategic partner, not just a task taker
- Trust fast and give access early
- Value async, autonomy, and initiative
- Are kind — even when stressed
- Are open to being challenged (with love)
- Know that systems don’t kill creativity — they enable it

🚫 I Usually Turn Down Founders Who…

- Want a personal assistant, not a strategic operator
- Expect 9-to-5 on-call availability
- Micromanage or struggle to delegate
- Think chaos is a leadership style
- Don’t pay on time (or see this as an “extra” expense)
- Aren’t ready to let go of control, even a little

Why This Matters

This isn’t about being picky — it’s about fit.

When the fit is right, magic happens. I can move faster, anticipate needs, and build systems that feel like magic. When the fit is wrong, we both waste time and energy. And you deserve better than that.

Final Thoughts

If you see yourself in the first list — we might be a fit. If you see yourself in the second — maybe not right now, and that’s okay too.