The way you start a relationship with a new client often determines how long that relationship lasts. A clear, professional onboarding process builds trust, sets expectations, and helps you deliver better results—faster.
In this article, you’ll learn how to onboard a new traffic management client the right way, feel confident and cared for from day one.
Why Onboarding Matters
✅ Builds trust and credibility
✅ Avoids misunderstandings later
✅ Speeds up campaign setup
✅ Clarifies roles, timelines, and deliverables
✅ Makes you look like a pro—even if you’re new
If you wing it, you’ll run into confusion, delays, or client frustration. But with a plan, you’ll look organized and experienced—before even launching the first ad.
Step 1: Send a Welcome Message or Email
After the client signs the contract or accepts your proposal, send a warm, professional welcome message.
Include:
- A thank you note
- A summary of what happens next
- A link to your onboarding form or checklist
- Timeline for next steps
Example:
“Hi [Client], thanks again for trusting me with your paid traffic.
Here’s what I’ll need to get started—along with what to expect in the next 7 days. Let’s get some great results together!”
Step 2: Share a Simple Onboarding Questionnaire
Use Google Forms, Typeform, or Notion to collect important info. Ask:
- Business name + niche
- Website and landing page links
- Offers/products/services they want to promote
- Audience insights (ideal customer, location, age, pain points)
- Previous ad experience (if any)
- Goals (leads, calls, sales, etc.)
- Budget range
- Access details (Facebook Page, Ad Account, Pixel, etc.)
Pro Tip: Keep it simple—no more than 10–12 key questions.
Step 3: Request Access to Required Assets
You’ll likely need access to:
- Meta Business Manager (Page, Ad Account, Pixel)
- Google Ads account
- Google Analytics or GA4
- Website or landing page (or contact to coordinate with web developer)
- Branding assets (logos, fonts, colors)
- Ad creatives (images, videos, testimonials)
Provide clear instructions, links, or Loom videos if the client is non-technical.
Step 4: Set Clear Expectations (in Writing)
Use email, Google Docs, or Notion to summarize:
✅ What You’ll Do:
- Create and manage campaigns
- Monitor performance
- Optimize targeting, creatives, and budget
- Report weekly or biweekly
✅ What You’ll Need From Them:
- Timely responses
- Feedback on leads
- Creative approvals (if needed)
✅ Communication Plan:
- Preferred channels (email, WhatsApp, Slack)
- How often you’ll check in (weekly, biweekly)
- When to expect reports
Step 5: Confirm Key Dates
Make it official:
- Campaign setup date
- First ad launch date
- First optimization review
- First report delivery
Having clear timelines avoids future “When will this be done?” emails.
Step 6: Build a Shared Dashboard or Folder
Use tools like:
- Google Drive / Dropbox – for creative assets and reports
- Notion / Trello / ClickUp – for task tracking (optional)
- Looker Studio – for live ad reporting (if you offer it)
This makes everything feel professional and transparent.
Step 7: Launch a “Kickoff” Campaign or Strategy Call
Once everything is in place, schedule a 15–30 minute strategy session to:
- Walk through the planned campaign
- Confirm targeting and messaging
- Set the right expectations (no magic overnight results!)
- Build rapport and confidence
Even if you don’t meet live, send a short Loom video overview.
Step 8: Launch the Campaign and Start Tracking
Once the campaign goes live:
- Monitor performance daily (especially in the first 3 days)
- Set alerts for key metrics (e.g., high CPC, zero leads)
- Start preparing your first client report
Bonus: Offer a 7-Day Check-In
Send a short update one week after launch:
✅ Summary of early performance
✅ Any adjustments made
✅ Reassurance that you’re monitoring things closely
Clients feel more confident when they hear from you without having to ask.
Final Thoughts
A professional onboarding experience sets the tone for a successful client relationship. It shows that you’re not just “running ads”—you’re a strategic partner.
Keep things clear, simple, and proactive—and your clients will feel like they made the right choice.
I specialize in Meta Ads, Google Ads, sales funnels, and client strategy—sharing everything I’ve learned through hands-on experience and real campaign results. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to grow as a traffic manager, this blog is here to guide you with practical tips and clear strategies.
Let’s grow together—one campaign at a time.