Your book of clients may never be perfect, but there are steps you can take to ensure your client roster is filled with the kind of people you enjoy working with most.

1. BE SPECIFIC. Describe your ideal client in enough detail that you can envision a real person. Consider characteristics such as investment assets, profession and age. Then go further, and consider things such as personality type and even hobbies.

2. IDENTIFY THE CLIENTS YOU LIKE WORKING WITH. Write down why you like working with them — whether it’s because they share your attitude toward financial planning or simply because your personalities or interests are compatible.

3. IDENTIFY CLIENTS YOU DON’T ENJOY WORKING WITH. Consider the specific reasons why you’d rather not deal with them — whether it’s a lack of profitability or a personality clash.

4. GO PUBLIC. Run your ideal client profile by your team, even your family and friends. Is it detailed enough to create a picture in their minds?

5. PRINT IT. Once you have honed your ideal client profile, incorporate it into a document or brochure and leave it with clients as well as professionals who may give referrals.

6. STAY THE COURSE. Learn to say “No thanks” to referrals that just don’t fit.