If you’re running a business, especially if you’re wearing all the hats, it’s easy to put off documenting your processes. Maybe you’ve told yourself you’ll “sort it when things get busier.” But most founders who wait end up regretting it.
SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) are the backbone of a business that runs smoothly, whether you’re solo or building a team. The real magic? They stop you reinventing the wheel every week.
So, where do you start if you haven’t written a single SOP yet?
Here are the first three to put in place (even if you think you don’t need them yet)
1. Client Onboarding SOP
You don’t need to be signing new clients daily to feel the benefits of this one. A simple onboarding checklist saves you scrambling for links, documents, or next steps every time you bring someone new on board.
What to include:
- Welcome email template
- Contract and invoice steps
- Key information you need from the client
- How and when to book the kick-off call
It’s a ten-minute job that’ll save you hours, and makes you look professional from the first impression.
2. Payment & Invoicing SOP
Cash flow matters, and nothing slows it down like missing invoices or inconsistent follow-ups.
What to include:
- How you raise and send invoices (which system, where to click)
- Payment terms and reminders
- What to do if a payment is late
Having this written down keeps the money side simple and stops things slipping through the cracks.
3. Content Scheduling SOP
Whether you post on Instagram once a week or send monthly newsletters, you need a clear system.
What to include:
- Where you draft content and graphics
- How you schedule or upload
- Checklist for links, hashtags, or call to actions
- When you review analytics (even a quick check once a month)
No more searching for last month’s captions or forgetting to publish. This is the routine that builds consistency without the mental load.
The bottom line:
You don’t need a big team or a complicated business to get huge value from these.
SOPs are just about making life easier for you, and freeing up your headspace for the work that really matters.
Want to skip the blank page and get started today?
Grab the 40 SOP Templates bundle and make your business run smoother, instantly.
