I am a story editor, writer and ghost writer.  I prefer a client who knows what I can do for them (help them make their work better and in the process, improve their writing skills) and what I CANNOT do for them (get them a literary agent and/or a deal, or a publisher for their work).  I prefer a client who has some writing ability and is willing to listen to feedback and suggestions and take some direction to improve their work. I prefer a client with a measure of maturity so they don't take my critiques personally and someone who exhibits accountability and a sense of responsibility for their part of the deal, which involves an ability and willingness to pay my quoted fee and pay it on time.