client onboarding checklistFree
Quick-start client onboarding checklist
By Tom Hunt · Updated October 2026
Not every project needs a six-phase rollout. This quick-start checklist covers the essentials - sign, collect, kick off, ship a win - for small or fast engagements.
Day 0 - start
- Countersign the contract / SOW and invoice the deposit
- Send one welcome message: what happens next + the single link to fill in
Days 1-3 - gather + kick off
- One intake form: goals, brand assets, and access via a password manager
- Confirm the single approver and the first deadline
- 30-minute kickoff call: confirm the first deliverable + date
Week 1-2 - prove it
- Ship a quick, visible win
- Send the first status update
- Quick check-in at day 14; capture feedback
fill in the blanks, copy it, or download as .docx or .pdf - then make it yours.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
What should a client onboarding checklist include?
Contract/SOW, welcome + expectations, intake questionnaire, brand assets, account access, kickoff, and a 30-day review.
How long should agency onboarding take?
Aim to go from signed to kickoff within 3-5 business days; faster onboarding reduces churn and speeds time-to-value.
Can I automate client onboarding?
Yes - Forge builds a branded onboarding flow that collects everything up front and routes it to your team, we build it and look after it for you.
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