Juggling client relationships, marketing, and chasing payments is a real balancing act. I’ve been tweaking my system for tracking clients and following up on invoices. Still feel like I’m missing something though.
Anyone else found a way to streamline these processes without dropping the ball on new business?
I keep it simple. Got a basic spreadsheet for clients and invoices. Not fancy, but works for me. Marketing? I rely on word of mouth mostly. Less hassle that way.
I track work in my phone and notebook.
Use a decent invoicing system. It’ll track clients, send reminders, and keep everything organized. I use QuickBooks, but there are cheaper options out there. For marketing, set up a simple website and ask happy clients for referrals. That’s all you really need. Don’t overcomplicate it. Focus on doing good work and the rest falls into place. Just make sure you’re getting paid on time. No point chasing new business if you can’t collect on what you’ve already done.
I’ve been there, trying to juggle all those balls. Here’s what’s worked for me:
For clients and invoices, I use a simple Google Sheet. It’s free and I can access it anywhere. I have tabs for active clients, completed jobs, and unpaid invoices. Color coding helps me spot overdue payments quickly.
I send invoices right after finishing a job. No delays. For unpaid ones, I have a reminder system. First at 7 days, then 14, then weekly. It’s polite but firm.
For marketing, I focus on keeping current clients happy. They’re my best advertisers. I also network at local business events. It’s slow but steady growth.
The key is consistency. Set aside time each week to update your records and follow up on payments. It’s not glamorous, but it keeps the cash flowing and stress low.
I use a basic spreadsheet for clients and invoices. Keeps things simple.
For marketing, word of mouth works well. Happy clients bring more work.
The key is staying on top of payments. I send invoices promptly and follow up quickly on late ones. No exceptions. It’s just business.
I’ve tried a bunch of systems over the years. Here’s what’s working for me now:
Client tracking:
Invoicing:
Marketing:
The key is consistency. I block out time every Friday to update everything. It’s not perfect, but it keeps me on track without too much fuss.
For unpaid invoices, I’m direct but polite. No point burning bridges, but you gotta get paid. Sometimes a phone call works better than email.
Remember, good work speaks for itself. Focus there first, and a lot of this other stuff falls into place.