Client Onboarding Checklist

Include a warm introduction, key contacts, and a timeline of what to expect in the first week.

Set up their workspace, invite them to the portal, and configure permissions for their team members.

Provide access to your client portal where they can track progress, share files, and communicate with your team.

Request logos, brand guidelines, social media credentials, analytics access, and any other assets you'll need.

Ensure both parties have a copy of the signed agreement, including deliverables, timelines, and payment terms.

Deep-dive into the client's goals, challenges, target audience, and success metrics. Record the call for reference.

Audit current website, analytics, campaigns, and content to understand the baseline before proposing strategy.

Align on measurable outcomes. Define what success looks like at 30, 60, and 90 days.

Identify 3-5 key competitors. Analyze their positioning, content, and digital presence to find opportunities.

Outline the recommended approach, channels, tactics, and timeline. Present to client for alignment before execution.

Set up the project with tasks, milestones, and deadlines. Assign team members and configure client visibility.

Break the engagement into phases with clear deliverables and dates. Share the timeline with the client.

Configure time tracking categories for billable hours. Ensure all team members know how to log their time.

Set up recurring invoices or milestone-based billing. Confirm payment terms and preferred payment method.

Designate a project lead, account manager, and specialists. Ensure everyone knows their responsibilities.

Agree on where day-to-day communication happens—client portal, email, or messaging tool. Avoid scattered channels.

Set up weekly or biweekly status calls. Send calendar invites with a standing agenda template.

Set clear expectations for email and message response times on both sides. Document in the project brief.

Outline who to contact for urgent issues. Provide backup contacts for your project lead.

Include preferred channels, response times, meeting cadence, and how to submit requests or feedback.

Central document with goals, strategy, brand guidelines, credentials, and key decisions. Keep it updated.

Define who approves what, how feedback is submitted, and turnaround times for reviews.

Create a clear folder structure for deliverables, assets, and reference materials. Grant appropriate access.

Create templates for weekly updates, monthly reports, and campaign performance summaries.

Pick something achievable within the first 2 weeks. An early win builds momentum and trust.

Complete the deliverable on time. Quality matters more than speed for the first impression.

Ask for structured feedback. What met expectations? What needs adjustment? Document for future work.

Refine your approach, communication, or deliverable format. Show the client you're responsive and adaptable.

Check in formally after the first milestone. Ensure alignment before moving deeper into the engagement.