Get it in Writing: Establishing Client Relationships
What's the first step in developing a new business?
- Business name?
- LLC?
- Location?
- Tools?
While all of those things are incredibly important, many people overlook the importance of getting clients right away and before you can develop client relationships you must clearly define what you offer and enter into an agreement that protects both you and them.
While people’s memories might get foggy, if a dispute arises, there’s nothing clearer than the written word. ~ Jenny Knizner, Moonlighting
Yes, a strategy for creating written agreements should be among the first developments for your business. Not only does it help you look professional and established, it can provide legal protection whether you're a sole proprietor, LLC, or S-Corp.
Fortunately there are many tools and resources out there to help you along. Simply opening Microsoft Word, Apple Pages, or even Google Drive can yield a few useful templates. Take it one step further and create an online proposal that your clients can accept, entering into a legally binding agreement. Freelance platforms like Moonlighting provide that functionality as well as a variety of other tools for your business.
When considering the first steps of getting a business started, think about contracts, legal constraints and finding clients who are willing to work with you to establish clear definitions of the relationship from day one. Coming from someone who's been burned - you don't want to work for free and you really don't want to have a handshake deal come back and haunt you!