Client Onboarding Checklist

Ensure smooth client onboarding with visual proof of work. Use this checklist to set expectations and build trust from day one.

✅ ChecklistPrint or save for reference

Pre-Onboarding (Before Contract Signing)

Initial Client Communication

  • Mention visual proof of work in initial proposal or sales conversation
  • Explain benefits: transparency, faster approvals, no disputes
  • Address any privacy concerns proactively
  • Offer to show sample visual timesheet report
  • Include visual proof of work in contract or statement of work

Onboarding Phase 1: Contract & Setup (Week 1)

Contract and Documentation

  • Send welcome email introducing visual proof of work (use Client Communication Template)
  • Attach sample visual timesheet report to welcome email
  • Create client project in Visual Timesheets/HiveDesk
  • Configure project settings (screenshot frequency, privacy controls)
  • Assign team members to client project
  • Set up billing and invoicing preferences

Onboarding Phase 2: Kickoff Meeting (Week 1-2)

Kickoff Communication

  • Schedule kickoff meeting with client
  • Present visual proof of work during kickoff (show sample report)
  • Explain how visual reports will be included with invoices
  • Highlight benefits: transparency, faster approvals, no disputes
  • Address any questions or concerns about monitoring
  • Explain privacy protections (screenshot blurring, encryption)
  • Set expectations for first invoice with visual proof

Onboarding Phase 3: First Work Period (Week 2-4)

Initial Work and First Invoice

  • Begin time tracking with visual proof of work
  • Monitor screenshot quality and capture frequency
  • Generate first visual timesheet report
  • Review report for accuracy and completeness
  • Attach visual report to first invoice
  • Send invoice with note highlighting visual proof of work
  • Follow up to ensure client received and reviewed report

Onboarding Phase 4: Feedback & Optimization (Week 4+)

Client Feedback and Refinement

  • Request feedback on visual reports after first invoice
  • Ask if visual proof meets their needs
  • Adjust screenshot frequency if needed based on feedback
  • Document client preferences for future reference
  • Establish visual proof of work as standard practice
  • Track metrics: payment time, disputes, client satisfaction

Ongoing Best Practices

Maintaining Client Relationship

  • Include visual proof of work with every invoice (standard practice)
  • Briefly mention visual proof in invoice emails (don't over-explain)
  • Periodically check in on client satisfaction with transparency
  • Share success metrics (faster payments, no disputes) when relevant
  • Use visual proof as differentiator in renewal discussions

Key Talking Points for Client Conversations

Benefits to Emphasize

  • Transparency: "You can see exactly what work was done during billable hours"
  • Faster Approvals: "Visual proof eliminates questions, leading to faster invoice approvals"
  • No Disputes: "Visual evidence prevents billing disputes before they start"
  • Trust Building: "This transparency builds stronger partnerships"
  • Value Demonstration: "You can see the value delivered in every hour billed"

Privacy Reassurance

  • Screenshots are captured only during active work time
  • Sensitive data is automatically blurred
  • All data is encrypted and secure
  • Access is restricted to authorized managers

Common Client Questions & Answers

Q: Will this slow down work?

A: No. Screenshots are captured automatically in the background with no impact on productivity. The system runs silently and requires no manual intervention.

Q: What about privacy?

A: We use automatic screenshot blurring to protect sensitive information. Screenshots are only captured during work time, and all data is encrypted and secure.

Q: Can we opt out?

A: Visual proof of work is a standard part of our service delivery, ensuring transparency and trust. However, we're happy to discuss any specific concerns you may have.

Success Metrics to Track

  • Client acknowledgment of visual proof of work
  • Time to first invoice approval
  • Number of billing disputes (should be zero)
  • Client satisfaction scores
  • Client retention rate
  • Payment cycle time

Additional Resources

Ready to Onboard Clients?

Use this checklist to ensure smooth client onboarding with visual proof of work from day one.