Running a small business often feels like juggling flaming torches – client work, invoices, emails, and a never-ending to-do list.

If your team (or even you) is constantly reinventing how things get done, you’re losing time, energy, and consistency.

The fix?

Document your workflows

Workflows turn what’s in your head into repeatable, reliable systems that keep your business running smoothly even when you’re not in the room.

Here are five simple workflows every small business should have documented.

1. Client Onboarding Workflow

First impressions matter. A clear, repeatable onboarding process sets the tone for your entire client relationship. When onboarding is consistent, clients feel taken care of, and you avoid the awkward “what happens next?” moments.

Your onboarding workflow might include:

• Sending a welcome email or packet
  
• Collecting intake forms and contracts
  
• Scheduling kickoff calls
  
• Setting up client folders and communication channels
  
• Handing off to your delivery or project team

2. Invoicing & Payment Workflow

Few things cause more headaches than chasing payments or losing track of invoices.
A written process helps you get paid faster and keeps your finances on track

Your workflow could include:

• Creating invoices on a set schedule (e.g., 1st and 15th of each month)
  
• Sending payment reminders after X days
  
• Logging payments in your accounting tool
  
• Reconciling monthly reports

3. Content Creation & Publishing Workflow

Whether you post on social media, send newsletters, or write blog content, you need a clear process from idea to publish. Consistency is key for marketing. With a clear workflow, you’ll avoid skipped posts and last-minute scrambles.

Your workflow might include:

• Brainstorming and approving topics
  
• Writing and editing
  
• Designing graphics or visuals
  
• Scheduling and publishing
  
• Tracking performance and engagement

4. Hiring & Onboarding New Team Members

Bringing someone new onto your team is exciting, but it can quickly turn messy without a process. Every new hire should have the same smooth experience. A defined 

Document a simple system for:

• Writing and posting job descriptions
  
• Reviewing applications and interviews
  
• Sending offer letters and contracts
  
• Setting up logins, tools, and training
  
• Reviewing progress after 30/60/90 days

5. Project Delivery & Wrap-Up Workflow

A polished finish leaves clients feeling confident, more likely to work with you again and refer you to others.

Document what happens when you deliver your final product or service:

• Internal review and final QA
  
• Sending final deliverables to the client
  
• Requesting feedback or testimonials
  
• Archiving files and closing the project in your system
  
• Sending a thank-you or follow-up offer

Documented workflows don’t have to be complicated. They just have to be clear.
Start with one area that causes the most friction, and build from there.

Once your systems are written down and easy to follow, you’ll spend less time managing chaos and more time focusing on what you do best.

If you’d like help building and documenting the workflows that make your business run smoothly, that’s exactly what I do. Learn more about my Operations Support