How contractors streamline the invoicing process to grow business, help clients Posted on January 8, 2019October 4, 2020 by Border States As a contractor, once you’ve completed a job, you want to streamline the invoicing process to achieve greater efficiency, avoid unnecessary costs and better manage cash flow for business growth. The easier it is for your client to pay you, the better. Keep reading for some helpful tips on how you can accomplish this. RELATED POST: How to kindly handle late customer payments (FREE contractor letter template, interest calculator) Automate with the latest tools Generating and mailing a paper bill is becoming a thing of the past. Many contractors are shifting to new electronic-based technology, such as automated and cloud-based accounts payable software that allows you to bill your clients from anywhere, utilize multiple payment options and keep detailed records. Automation simplifies your invoice processing cycle while making it easier for clients to make timely payments. The software you choose should: Allow electronic document exchange among users. Reduce errors. Prevent duplicate invoices. Eliminate the possibility of lost checks. Minimize delays. When setting up your system, it might be helpful to send invoices on a regularly scheduled day of the week or month. Following this pattern will help you track payment trends and follow up on old invoices. Additionally, set up your invoices with your business logo and color scheme so clients know the invoice is coming from you. Be timely The sooner you invoice, the sooner you’re likely to get paid. We know you’re busy managing multiple aspects of your job site, but try to set aside a dedicated time for invoicing. Many of your clients likely want to pay their bills in a timely fashion, as well, so as to not be surprised with bills from old projects. Be sure to include deadlines. Invoices are typically asked to be paid within 30 days, but each contracting job is unique, so tailor this to best fit your needs. Additionally, don’t be afraid to ask for expedited payment. Itemize and break up invoices Most payment confusion stems from a lack of information on invoices. Clients usually don’t care for broad and vague details of a job, especially when they have billing questions. They want to know what they’re being charged for and why. This is where itemized invoices prevent headaches. Itemized invoices are good for you, as well, because they make it easier to view which of your services are in high demand. Itemized information should include the product or service provided, quantity and add-on services. The more details you can show on your invoice, the better. Additionally, rather than generating a huge invoice and asking for a lump sum at the end of a larger-than-usual project, consider breaking down your charges into manageable pieces that are easier for your client to pay throughout a project. Takeaways: Streamline the invoicing process Automation, timeliness and itemization are keys to a successful invoicing process. By following these best practices, you’ll save time and money. Related posts How to kindly handle late customer payments (FREE contractor letter template, interest calculator) 10 keys to success in a construction company | Border States
