
Contracts are the backbone of any service-based business, providing a foundation of trust and clarity between service providers and their clients. As a member of 17hats, you have access to powerful tools that make contract management seamless and efficient. Let’s explore why contracts are super important and how 17hats can help you harness their full potential.
Legal Protection
One of the primary reasons contracts are essential is the legal protection they offer. A well-drafted contract clearly outlines the terms and conditions of the agreement, providing a reference point for both parties in case of any disputes. With 17hats, you can easily create, customize, and store contracts, ensuring that both parties understand their obligations and rights.
Clear Expectations
Contracts set clear expectations for both the service provider and the client. By specifying the scope of work, deadlines, payment terms, and responsibilities, contracts reduce the chances of misunderstandings and sticky situations. Contracts help ensure that everyone is on the same page. Using 17hats, you can create detailed contracts that leave no room for ambiguity, streamlining communication and preventing potential conflicts.
Pro Tip: With the use of 17hats Client Portal, clients are able to access signed Contracts, other 17hats Documents, as well as event details in one handy location.
Financial Security
Financial stability is vital for any business, and contracts play a key role in ensuring service providers are paid fairly and on time. By detailing payment terms, including the amount, schedule, and method of payment, contracts help maintain cash flow and financial stability. 17hats simplifies this process with features like automatic invoice reminders and automatic payments, making it easier to manage your finances and secure your income.
Pro Tip: Visit the help articles linked above to learn more about automatic invoice reminders and automatic payments.
Risk Management
Contracts help in managing risks by addressing potential issues such as delays, cancellations, or changes in project scope. Including clauses for handling unforeseen circumstances ensures that both parties are prepared and protected. With 17hats, you can easily customize your contracts to fit specific needs, giving you peace of mind and a proactive approach to risk management.
Professionalism and Credibility
Having a contract in place demonstrates professionalism and establishes credibility. It shows that you take your business seriously and are committed to delivering quality work while fulfilling agreed-upon terms. This professionalism can enhance trust and build stronger client relationships. 17hats allows you to create polished, professional contracts that reflect your brand’s commitment to excellence, helping you stand out in a competitive market.
Using 17hats for Contract Management
Leveraging the capabilities of 17hats can significantly benefit service providers by ensuring smooth operations, minimizing risks, and fostering trust with clients. Here’s how 17hats makes contract management effortless:

- Customizable Tokens: Tokens are placeholders that allow information to be auto-filled into a Contract. Automation = Time saved.
- Reusable Templates: With 17hats, you have the option to save a Contract as a Template, which makes sending a Contract as easy as a click of a button.
Pro Tip: Want a head start? Start with pre-built Contract Templates from the 17hats Marketplace and customize them to fit your specific needs, saving time and ensuring professionalism.
- Electronic Signatures: Enable clients to sign Contracts electronically, speeding up the process and eliminating the need for physical paperwork.
- Automated Workflows: Automate the entire Contract process, from creation to counter-signing to follow-up emails, ensuring nothing falls through the cracks.
- Centralized Storage: Keep all your Contracts in one secure platform, making it easy to access and manage your agreements.
“17hats has given me the opportunity to maximize my business productivity by allowing me to keep my Contracts and Invoices all in one place!” — Lauren M.
Contracts are a cornerstone of successful service-based businesses, providing legal protection, clear expectations, financial security, risk management, and enhanced professionalism. By using 17hats, you can streamline your contract management process, ensuring that you and your clients are always on the same page. Embrace the power of Contracts within 17hats to build stronger client relationships and drive your business forward.
Ready to level-up your Contracts with 17hats Marketplace? Explore these top-notch Contracts available in the Marketplace.
Event Speaker Contract by Donna Lee Lyttle
Having an air-tight speaker agreement will ensure that both the client and speaker understand the terms of the engagement and that the event will run smoothly.
Check out Donna’s installable Contract here!

Commercial Video Contract by Matt Stagliano
Tailored for creative videographers, this contract ensures clarity, protection, and professionalism in every collaboration. Secure your rights, outline payment terms, and set clear expectations with clients.
Check out Matt’s installable Contract here!

Wedding & Portrait Contract Bundle by Vanessa Joy
This essential collection includes the following specialized contracts:
Corporate Job Contract
General Model Release
Headshot Photography Contract
Portrait Contract
Wedding Photography Contract

Cancellation of Wedding Contract
Check out Vanessa’s installable Contracts here!
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One reply on “5 Reasons Every Service-Based Business Needs a Solid Contract”
This is all such good advice regarding contracts for a small business! On a related note, Amanda Rae (17hats CEO) penned some helpful food for thought when it comes to shielding your personal assets (and your spouse’s) from a business dispute. Of course, air-tight contracts are a best, first step, as Emily explains. But Amanda’s blog on limited liability protection – forming an LLC, for example – is worth considering as you are contemplating guardrails in your client relationships. Read it here: https://blog.17hats.com/protect-yourself-limited-liability-protection/