Typical LinkedIn. “Quick learner and highly adaptable. Detail-oriented and always accountable for results…” And so on. Mixed feelings. On the one hand, we all sell ourselves however we can, I get it. On the other hand, as a potential employer, I’d simply be bored with an employee like that. Where’s the ambition? Where’s the initiative? Where’s the willingness to tell the boss to fuck off, with arguments, when the boss is wrong?

Like I did recently with one “potential non-client.” A little off-topic, but close enough. Clients are sort of my employers too. “Vladimir,” he says, “let’s get on Zoom, get acquainted, and you can tell me in detail how you work, how you can help me, and so on.” “Sure,” I say, “but by phone and for 5–10 minutes. That’s plenty for a free consultation.” “Fine then [smirking emoji], if not, no big deal.” Exactly.

My clients and I are partners. Some, over time, become friends. We make money together, lose money together. We respect each other’s time and expertise. Either we’re equals, or nothing.