What to think about when onboarding customers to eInvoicing

For many Australian and New Zealand businesses, the shift towards electronic invoicing (eInvoicing) can feel like an uphill battle. While the potential benefits – faster payments, streamlined processes, and reduced costs – are undeniable, achieving widespread adoption can be a challenge.

Understanding customer needs and concerns

Businesses come in all shapes and sizes, and their eInvoicing readiness varies greatly. It’s crucial to understand your customers’ individual needs and concerns. Consider asking customers directly or send an informal survey to gain insights into their:

• Current invoicing processes: What pain points do they experience receiving traditional paper or PDF invoices?
• Level of technical expertise: Are they comfortable using new technologies? What level of support would they need?
• Concerns about eInvoicing: What hesitations or reservations do they have about adopting eInvoicing?

Addressing customer concerns and making eInvoicing easy

Once you understand your customers’ perspectives, you can tailor your approach to address their concerns and make eInvoicing a smooth transition for them. Here are some key strategies:

• Offer flexible options: Don’t force a one-size-fits-all approach. Provide a variety of eInvoicing solutions, including web portals and integrated solutions, to cater to different preferences and technical capabilities. MessageXchange offers customer a free portal for partners to use, Colladium.
• Prioritise education and support: Provide clear and accessible resources, such as user guides, FAQs, and training webinars, to help your customers understand and implement eInvoicing. Offer ongoing support to answer questions and address any issues they encounter, or be able to refer them to someone who has the answers.
• Focus on the benefits: Clearly communicate the value proposition of eInvoicing to your customers. Highlight the faster payment cycles, reduced costs, and improved efficiency they can expect.

Building a collaborative ecosystem

Remember, eInvoicing isn’t just about your individual business; it’s about fostering a collaborative ecosystem where all participants benefit. By working with your customers, industry partners, and government agencies, you can create a smoother and more efficient invoicing experience for everyone.

• Engage with industry associations: Collaborate with industry bodies and peak organisations to advocate for eInvoicing standards and best practices.
• Advocate for government support: Encourage government initiatives that promote widespread eInvoicing adoption across the economy. This could be working with Government for them to motivate others towards eInvoicing.

By prioritising your customers and building a collaborative ecosystem, you can unlock the true potential of eInvoicing and create a more efficient and prosperous business environment for all. Remember:

• Tailor your approach to the specific needs and concerns of your Australian and/or New Zealand customer base.
• Offer flexible options, provide education and support.
• Focus on the benefits of eInvoicing and build a collaborative ecosystem with industry partners and government agencies.

By taking these steps, you can turn eInvoicing adoption from a challenge into a win-win for your business and your customers.

Want to learn more about how to work with your customers to get them onto eInvoicing? Get in touch with our team with the form below.