DPFS Templates
Freelance

Client Onboarding Checklist Template

The first week of a new client engagement sets the tone for everything that follows. A structured onboarding process signals professionalism, prevents scope creep, and ensures both parties start aligned. This template covers the essential touchpoints for most freelance projects.

Client Onboarding Checklist Template
CLIENT ONBOARDING CHECKLIST
Project: {{project_name}}
Client: {{client_name}}
Date: {{onboarding_date}}

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PRE-START (Before Day 1)
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☐ Contract signed by both parties
☐ Deposit invoice paid ({{deposit_amount}})
☐ Access granted to: {{tools_access_list}}
☐ Brand assets received: {{assets_needed}}
☐ Kick-off call scheduled: {{kickoff_date}}

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KICK-OFF CALL AGENDA
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☐ Review project goals and success metrics
☐ Confirm deliverables and timeline
☐ Agree on communication channel: {{comm_channel}}
☐ Set check-in cadence: {{checkin_schedule}}
☐ Clarify feedback/revision process
☐ Introduce project management tool: {{pm_tool}}

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FIRST WEEK
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☐ Share project brief / creative brief for approval
☐ Submit first milestone: {{first_milestone}}
☐ Confirm milestone feedback deadline: {{feedback_deadline}}

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ONGOING
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Check-in schedule: {{checkin_schedule}}
Feedback turnaround: {{feedback_sla}}
Scope change process: {{scope_change_process}}

How to use this template

  1. 1Send this to the client before the kick-off call — it shows professionalism immediately.
  2. 2Complete the Pre-Start checklist before Day 1 — never start work without a signed contract and deposit.
  3. 3Share the PM tool link so both parties can track progress without email chains.

Template variables

Replace each {{variable}} in the template with your actual information.

VariableDescriptionExample
{{project_name}}Name of the projectWebsite Redesign — Phase 1
{{client_name}}Client nameAcme Corp
{{tools_access_list}}Tools client needs to grant access toGoogle Analytics, CMS, Figma project
{{assets_needed}}Assets you need from clientlogo files, brand guidelines, copy doc
{{comm_channel}}Primary communication channelSlack (shared channel)
{{checkin_schedule}}How often you'll check inWeekly Mondays at 10am
{{feedback_sla}}How quickly client should respond to requests48 hours
{{scope_change_process}}How you handle scope changesNew requests submitted via email, quoted before work begins

Frequently asked questions

Onboarding is typically included in your project fee. If a client requires unusually extensive setup or training, build that time into your quote.

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