Agency Client Onboarding Checklist (From Signed Contract to Kickoff)

The first two weeks with a new client set the tone for the whole relationship. A repeatable onboarding checklist makes every client feel looked after — and stops your team chasing logins for a month.

Before kickoff

• Signed agreement and statement of work filed
• First invoice sent and payment terms confirmed
• Welcome email with what happens next and who to contact
• Intake questionnaire sent (goals, audience, brand assets, competitors)
• Access requests for every platform you need
• Client added to your project management system
• Internal handoff from sales to the delivery lead

Kickoff

• Agenda sent in advance
• Goals and success metrics agreed in writing
• Communication channel and response times set
• Reporting schedule confirmed
• First 30-day plan shared

First 30 days

• First deliverable shipped on the promised date
• First report sent on schedule
• Expected payment date added to your cash forecast
• Check-in to catch problems early