What to Do After Signing a Client: 5 Steps to Guarantee Payment and Avoid Last-Minute Cancellations
Learn how to protect yourself from late payments and last-minute cancellations with these 5 steps after signing a client.
You've spent hours on a proposal, nailed the pitch, and secured a new client. But then, nothing happens. No payment, no updates, and no communication. You're left wondering if you'll ever get paid for your services. This is a common scenario for freelancers and service professionals, but it doesn't have to be. In this post, we'll show you what to do after signing a client to guarantee payment and avoid last-minute cancellations.
Why this keeps happening
The problem lies in the lack of clear communication and payment terms after signing a client. Without a deposit, contract, or clear invoicing schedule, you're left vulnerable to late payments and cancellations. This can lead to lost revenue, wasted time, and a damaged reputation.
Real example
Take Sarah, a freelance writer who secured a new client for a high-profile project. She spent hours on the proposal and pitched her services confidently. However, after signing the client, she forgot to send a deposit invoice, and the client ended up canceling at the last minute, leaving Sarah with no payment and a wasted week of work.
The habits that fix this permanently
These are the non-negotiables for getting paid reliably in your profession:
How to implement this step by step
Step 1: Send a Deposit Invoice
Send a deposit invoice within 24 hours of signing a client to secure payment. This shows that you're serious about your services and sets the tone for the project. For example, if you're working on a $10,000 project, consider sending a $1,000 deposit invoice to secure payment. This will ensure that your client is committed to the project and prevent last-minute cancellations. Use Becflow's automated invoicing feature to send professional invoices and track payments.
Step 2: Include Clear Payment Terms
Include clear payment terms and a cancellation policy in your contract. This will protect you from late payments and cancellations. For example, if you're working on a project that requires a series of payments, include a clause that outlines the payment schedule and cancellation policy. Use Becflow's contract feature to create a professional contract with clear payment terms and cancellation policies.
Step 3: Set a Payment Schedule
Set a payment schedule with your client to avoid late payments. This will ensure that you receive payment on time and prevent missed payments. For example, if you're working on a project that requires a series of payments, set a payment schedule that includes the due date, payment amount, and any late fees. Use Becflow's invoicing feature to send professional invoices and track payments.
Step 4: Use Automatic Reminders
Use Becflow's reminders feature to send automatic payment reminders and prevent missed payments. This will ensure that your client receives payment on time and prevent late fees. For example, if you're working on a project that requires a series of payments, set automatic reminders to send 3 days before the payment is due. This will ensure that your client receives a reminder and makes the payment on time.
Step 5: Review and Update Your Contract and Payment Terms
Review and update your contract and payment terms regularly to reflect any changes in your services or client needs. This will ensure that you're protected from late payments and cancellations. For example, if you're introducing a new service or changing your pricing, update your contract and payment terms to reflect these changes. Use Becflow's contract feature to create a professional contract with clear payment terms and cancellation policies.
The Becflow solution
Becflow's AI-powered contracts and payment links make it easy to create professional contracts and send invoices to clients. Our automated reminders feature ensures that your client receives payment on time and prevents missed payments. Sign up for Becflow today and start protecting yourself from late payments and last-minute cancellations.
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