Being an entrepreneur is quite a thrilling ride, but there are some not-so-exciting parts mixed in there as well. What’s even more annoying, these are often the tasks that are crucial for your business’s success.
Let’s take administrative tasks as an instance. Drafting budgets, planning your path to development, hiring people, bookkeeping, and invoicing are but a few tasks that require endless hours and can numb your brain.
The good news is that if you know what tools to use for each of these tasks, you can easily automate most of the boring activities. For instance, did you know there are several options when it comes to creating invoices?
In today’s article, we will discuss some of these options so you can make an informed decision when choosing the best invoicing tools for your business.
1. Create Invoices in Google Docs or Word
Both Google Docs and Microsoft Word have pre-defined templates for a wide range of documents and files. What’s even better, some of these templates are free, so there are no extra expenses.
So, to generate an invoice in either Google Docs or Microsoft Word, all you have to do is create a new document and browse the available templates. In Google Docs, you have to find the Template Gallery and choose the one that best suits your needs.
Quick tip: if there are too many templates, you can use the search bar to find the ones for invoices.
Once you’ve uploaded the template, look for the custom entry fields (areas that can be edited) and add your company’s details. This includes anything from your logo, name, address, and financial information to the description of work and the amount to be paid.
However, keep in mind that this method only works if you have a small number of invoices to generate. If your business is growing and more customers are showing up, you may want to consider invoice automation.
2. Generating One-Off Invoices Online
If you’re not using any text editor and don’t want to think about invoicing software (yet), you have the option of using an online generator. This tool is quite similar to using a predefined template in Google Docs or Microsoft Word, only you can’t customize anything. You just add the details of your company and invoice and send it out.
Overall, this is a great tool for generating online invoices when you’re on the go and don’t have access to your laptop or computer. It also works for small businesses that don’t have a large volume of monthly invoices to generate.
3. Use Microsoft Excel
Microsoft Excel is one of the most used software tools for invoicing and bookkeeping by small companies. Its features also make it an amazing reporting and product management tool. However, when it comes to designing graphic templates (like for invoices), it can be a bit cumbersome.
But, with a bit of practice and the right template (there are entire collections of Excel templates online, many of which are free), it’s quite easy to learn. Just keep in mind that it still involves a lot of manual work since you have to introduce all the data. This also leaves you open to data entry mistakes, calculation errors, and typos that can be quite costly.
4. Use Invoicing & Billing Software
Invoicing and billing software can bring a wide range of benefits to a small business.
First, it saves you time by automating repetitive tasks such as creating and sending invoices. Instead of spending hours manually filling out paperwork, the software does it all for you with just a few clicks.
Secondly, it improves accuracy by reducing human error in calculations and data entry. This means no more miscalculations or typos that could cost you money or damage your professional reputation.
Lastly, it enables professional and organized communication with your clients through professional-looking invoices that reflect your brand identity.
Overall, invoicing software streamlines your financial processes, allowing you to focus on what really matters – growing your business.
5. Make Your Own Templates
If you’re not comfortable using pre-defined templates, you always have the option of creating your own. You can use any tools you want, from good-old MS Word to Photoshop, or you can customize pre-existing templates by adjusting colors and fonts.
The good news is that you can be as creative and genuine as you’d like. Just make sure to include all the information legally required to appear on an invoice, such as company details and payment terms.
By creating your own templates, you can ensure that your invoices align with your brand image and provide a professional impression to your clients. Plus, it’s a cost-effective solution since you won’t need to hire a designer or purchase pre-designed templates.
Wrap Up
Whether you choose ready-made templates or unleash your creativity with custom designs, you have lots of options when it comes to creating invoices. However, as your business grows, you should focus on tools that will help you save time, improve accuracy, and reduce human error.
