How do you keep track of private clients and what you are writing?

[momchelle]

I'm excited to have some private clients now, but I'm still trying to figure out a good way to keep track of what I am doing for what client at what rate. Does anyone have a good system they would like to share?

Thanks!

Michelle

[nm2015]

A good database will store the info you need. MS Access comes to mind, and it has certainly gotten easier to use over the years. But if you need something simpler, a spreadsheet should work just fine.

Even better, both Google and Microsoft offer free versions of their database and spreadsheet applications online.

[beanandpumpkin]

I use the analog method of a notebook. I have tried keeping track digitally, but I really need to have a notebook open in front of me. I designate a page for each client, each month, then at the end of the month add everything up and keep track of my monthly total on the first page of the notebook.

[Jonelle]

A spreadsheet works well for my purposes.

[Robin Bull]

Originally Posted by momchelle

I'm excited to have some private clients now, but I'm still trying to figure out a good way to keep track of what I am doing for what client at what rate. Does anyone have a good system they would like to share?

Thanks!

Michelle

You could just use Excel. I will tell you, though, to make your life easier and have a standard rate sheet. You might also want signed contracts. All of my clients are private and I've only had one issue in a year.

I use Cashboardapp.com to keep up with my clients, invoice them, etc. I can set up different rates if I want to do that...but I usually don't.

[momchelle]

Thanks everyone. I'm not too familiar with spreadsheets, but I guess maybe I need to learn. I've been using a notebook, but it isn't the most organized method. Well, for me at least.