When observing a potential partner or vendor, I use several criteria to assess how much effort to invest, or whether to decline collaboration altogether. Honestly, I rationally think I'm too particular about these things and needn't care, but I truly believe in doing solid work and not chasing fame (which explains why my follower count stays stagnant)
The details I basically care about are: punctuality, timely payment, and courtesy.
First, punctuality
Over the past few years, I've had many opportunities to work with vendors. When meeting in person, I usually arrive early, though sometimes I'm late too, but before being late I'll definitely send a message saying I'm on my way and how much longer it will take. This is what I consider basic etiquette.
However, I've encountered many instances where vendors schedule a meeting to discuss collaboration but then arrive late, compressing our discussion time since I often have back-to-back schedules afterward. One or two times is fine, but consistently being late affects trust.
Second, timely payment
Previously, I always felt uncomfortable chasing vendors for payment, worrying they'd think "didn't I say I'd pay you, why are you rushing?" But I really care about it. If we agreed payment would come next month on a certain date, or two months later on a specific date, that's an already-discussed timeline. I keep a calendar recording when each payment should arrive and which account, and since I work with numerous vendors, I check almost daily. So I remember each vendor's payment date very clearly. Some vendors use electronic scheduling, so I receive confirmation emails early on, which I think is a very responsible approach.
But many times, when I check my receiving account that day, the transfer hasn't arrived yet. Usually I wait until the next day to inquire about the payment status. If the date needs adjusting, that's fine, but I just want to know the progress.
I'm actually worried this behavior gives a bad impression, that people think I'm stingy or something. But honestly, when I follow up on payment, my work is already completed. I usually deliver early, so why should I wait for you to delay payment?
I think the above point is a concern and worry for many freelancers and contractors. I'll be honest—it's not that we lack money, it's just that we have standards for details. And as mentioned, if there's no improvement each time, it truly affects trust. You might gradually notice that things I used to inquire about actively, I eventually choose not to initiate anymore. That's a form of distrust.
Third point: courtesy
I'm actually quite easygoing in nature. Anyone who's interacted with me knows I answer every question and try my best to help when needed, but I really care about small details—whether the other person is genuine and honest.
I've received several collaboration inquiries mentioning connections with certain people. Once, I happened to know the person they mentioned well, so I verified directly. Imagine my surprise discovering they'd never actually met, weren't even close…It was quite shocking, as if someone became a bargaining chip.
I think a better approach when sending inquiries is to inform the person you'd like to mention that you're interested in collaborating with them, so when they're asked, it confirms the connection and feels thoughtful. Another good way is to introduce yourself well and explain why you want to work with that person. That creates a healthy partnership, not one dependent on someone else's name.
