Getting a new client is always exciting. After marketing, doing a sales presentation, and acquiring the customer, the next step is the on-boarding process. The way that you onboard a customer contributes to setting the tone for your relationship. To build a strong relationship, it is essential to develop and implement a solid on-boarding process with clear steps. Below, we discuss the steps for successfully on-boarding a new customer.

Establish the Scope and Goals

The first step in on-boarding is to establish goals and milestones and to outline the work that will be delivered and its scope. Much of this will be included in the client agreement, but more details can be provided after the agreement is signed. Establishing achievable goals is important for making sure that you stay on track for accomplishing them and for helping to ensure that you will satisfy the client.

Gather Information from the Client

An essential part of properly on-boarding a client is to gather information that you need from them to be able to deliver what you are offering. For instance, this can include login information for platforms that you will need to use, information about their target market, and images and copy that you can use. Using spreadsheets is a great way to keep such information well-organized. To make sure that everyone is on the same page about on-boarding, it can be helpful to have a meeting with the client to go over the on-boarding process.

Complete the Initial Setup

Do any necessary research for beginning to work with the client. For example, you may need to research tools to use, research their target market, or keywords that you may need to use for working with them. You may also need to create content for the client to get started.

Prepare Your Team

In addition to having an on-boarding process for the client, you also need to have systems and processes in place for your team, such as standard operating procedures, to ensure that each person on the team knows what they will need to do for the client.

Maintain Good Communication

Maintain positive communication with the client through the on-boarding process and beyond. Let them know that you are available if they have any questions. Also, follow up with them from time to time to see if there is anything that they need.

Create a Re-Usable Process for On-boarding

Creating an on-boarding process that can be re-used with each customer helps to streamline your processes and saves time. But also remember to include flexibility in your process since clients have different needs.

A coach can help you to set up an effective on-boarding process for your business. Get in touch today.