How to Make a Professional Invoice?
As an entrepreneur, you realize the importance of receiving speedy payments for your services. Some of your customers are on the same page with you here, while others frequently delay their payments. There might be a well-justified reason why your customer hasn’t sent you the payment in a timely manner, or there might not be. In either case, designing your invoice in the most professional manner is sure to boost your chances of getting compensation within the stated time frame. Keep reading for more details on how to create professional invoices. Don’t forget that if you
create an invoice online using top-level tools, it will tremendously save your time.
What Does a Professional Invoice Look Like?
Think of your professional invoice sample as the first impression of your business. This document is very important when it comes to establishing trust with your customers and stimulating them to pay you in a timely manner. Follow these tips if you want your formal invoice files to look (and feel) unimpeachable:
- emphasize branding: make sure the doc features your logo, your company name, and unique style;
- make the most of editable invoice templates: they’re a breeze to utilize and immensely add up to your professionalism;
- consistency is key: follow a uniform design and style;
- avoid spelling mistakes and always be as polite as possible;
- be flexible when it comes to accepting an array of payment methods (and don’t forget to list them in the doc);
- highlight the due date: be as clear as possible to avoid any hint at confusion;
- express gratitude to your client for their interest in your company, for it’s definitely going to stir up purchasing processes.
- invoice template Excel are great for keeping track of billing and payment information.
What Should Be Included in an Invoice?
To help your client understand exactly what they pay for, who they pay, and how they can send the payment your way, make sure you’re aware of how to structure an invoice and what it should include.
Here are the must-feature points of your professional-looking invoices:
- unique ID: this will allow you to identify each doc in the blink of an eye.
- your business name and contacts: your client might need them in case any dispute arises;
- your client’s company name and contacts: these details are a must-include, too;
- list of services rendered/products sold: make sure you use a separate line for each service/product;
- payment requirements: just to clarify your terms upfront;
- issue date, due date, and the total amount payable.
Tips from Saldo Invoice
While the way you design and word your invoices is vital, there’s a multitude of other factors to take into account when adjusting the most
basic invoice format to your unique needs. Whether you’re on a mission to get speedier compensation or want to build rapport with your customers, these extra hacks might come in handy:
- invoice as fast as you can: that way, your client will get all the necessary info before the details of your project slip their mind;
- learn more about your customers: you need to know whether they’re serious about working with you;
- follow up religiously: politely notify your client that their payment deadline is almost here or ask them if they received your invoice in the first place;
- offer discounts for early transactions and charge late fees: some extra stimulation is always effective.
Last but not least, don’t forget to use professional invoicing software. This will allow you to send multiple invoices in one go, make the follow-up process a cakewalk, boost your overall accuracy, and contribute to easier auditing. With excellent tools at your fingertips, you will streamline your workflow and succeed in getting paid fast.
Gleb Piankov
Product Designer. The one, who develops and improves Invoice Maker. He creates and maintains the design system of Saldo Apps products.
Learn more