Getting invoices paid in a timely manner should be one of the top concerns you have as a business owner. In a recent survey, over 40 percent of business owners claimed that invoice collection was their biggest challenge in relation to cash flow management.
When choosing an invoice design, your main goal should be making these documents easy to read and professional looking. If you are in the market for new invoice templates, be sure to check out the selection at https://www.freshbooks.com/invoice-templates/category/creative.
Here are some of the things you need to consider when trying to get the best invoice design for your small business.
The Invoice Design Needs to Reflect Your Brand
The first consideration you need to make when choosing an invoice design is whether or not it is indicative of your brand. The various elements on an invoice like the font, layout and even logos make a big impression on a customer.
The last thing you want is to send out a universal looking invoice to your customers. You want them to realize who the invoice is coming from at first glance. This is why your business logo needs to be front and center on the invoice. Obstructing the logo with unneeded boxes or a large font is a huge mistake that you need to avoid at all cost.
Make Sure The Payment Options on the Invoice Are Clearly Laid Out
The customers you are sending invoices to will need to have all of the payment options you accept laid out in front of them. Ideally, you want to make paying an outstanding invoice as easy as you can on your customers.
While making your invoice appealing is important, you don’t need to let design get in the way of functionality. Clearly marking the payment section and options is easy when using bold headers and larger font. You will also need to put details on the invoice that show the customer what they are paying for. Being too vague with what these charges are for can lead to lots of confusion.
Be Clear and Friendly With Your Message
Most people try to hold on to their money as long as they can. This is why you need to be cordial and clear with the messages on your invoice.
Clearly laying out how long a customer has to pay and what the penalties are for late payment is vital. Providing consumers with this information can help to eliminate any confusion and will also provide them with more motivation to pay the invoice on time. If you send out reminders for overdue invoices, you need to also focus on keeping the message clear and concise.
Address The Client By Name
Are you looking for a way to make your business invoices more personalized? If so, you need to add the name of the client on the first line. Addressing the client by name is a great way to instantly grab their attention.
Generally, using a business owners name instead of their actual business entity will garner a faster response. Plus, adding this type of personal touch will show the client that you have gone the extra mile for them once again.
If you are unsure about what type of invoice your business should have, consult with professionals in this industry. With their assistance, you should have no problem narrowing down the list of invoice template options at your disposal. The time and energy you invest in this process will pay off in the long run.
