3746 Clemmons Road,
PO Box 1396 Clemmons, NC 27012

Phone: 336-766-6811
Fax: 336-766-6809

Disclaimer

Please note that tax laws change almost daily and that each situation is unique and although we strive to provide current information, none of the information found on these pages can replace the advise of a tax professional. We strongly recommend you consult with a tax professional about your individual situation to ensure proper application of tax laws. We are not responsible for the use of these links as your only source of tax information.

Marketing with QuickBooks Invoices

Situation

Would you like to make your clients smile even when you are asking them for money?

Response

Here are five tips on how to spruce up your QuickBooks® invoices before sending them to your clients.

1. List No-Charge Items

Are you getting credit for all that you do for the client, even though you might not bill them? If not, it might be because the client isn't aware of all that you do. The invoice is the perfect place for client education.

Be sure to list everything you've done for the client since the last bill. For example:

The client will see the extra value he received as a bonus, and your fee will sound - well, at least it will sound reasonable to the client.

2. List Discounts as a Separate Line Item

Instead of netting your invoices, list the regular price of a service, then list the discount the customer is receiving. For example:

The client will be able to see the regular price and appreciate the savings you are so generously offering. Just showing a net line is too subtle and a client might overlook the special pricing.

3. Use the Customer Message Field

QuickBooks already offers a Customer Message field on the invoice template with pre-worded messages such as "It's been a pleasure working with you!" or "All work is complete!" Take advantage of these messages or word your own. Here are some ideas:

· We appreciate your referrals.

· We are now offering payroll processing. Please call our office to find out more.

· Thank you for your order. For questions about this invoice, please call Jim.

· Happy Valentine's Day!

· Bring in this invoice for 10% off 2006 tax return processing.

· Our annual customer appreciation party is December 5, go to www.ourwebsite.com to find out more.

· This invoice is past due! Does your mother know you haven't paid us?

4. Add Your Logo

Be sure to take advantage of the customization feature that QuickBooks offers regarding all of the forms within the software. Open the Invoices window and in the top right-hand corner, you'll see a button that says Customize. Click it, select New, type in a name for your new invoice form and start customizing. Under the Company tab, you'll see a box you can check to add a logo and a button you can click to add the file location.

If you need further adjustments to your logo, you can work in Layout Designer.

Adding your logo helps to brand your company and helps people recognize your company. You'll want to add your logo to everything you do.

5. Brighten It Up

If you have a color printer or are emailing your invoices, you can make the most of your invoices by adjusting font colors and styles. Customize one of your new invoice templates by selecting the Format tab and then highlighting the font you want to change. Click the Change button and you can change size, style, bold or italics, and the color.

These five tips should brighten up your invoice and brighten up your customer's day, just a little.