17hats vs HoneyBook: 2025 CRM Comparison

The comparison between 17hats and HoneyBook in 2025 highlights key differences to help small business owners choose the right CRM. Both platforms offer robust features for client management, invoicing, and scheduling, but HoneyBook excels in lead management with advanced automation, while 17hats provides superior document templates. Pricing varies, with HoneyBook offering more flexible plans. Consider your business needs: if automation and lead capture are priorities, HoneyBook is ideal; for document handling and structured workflows, 17hats may be better. Ultimately, the choice depends on specific business requirements and budget constraints.

Small business owners, freelancers, and solo entrepreneurs need solid software to organize client relationship management and workflows. Using such tools makes:

• Drafting agreement templates
• Preparing quotation templates
• Invoice templates

much easier. While the market offers many viable options, selecting the right platform for your needs can be challenging.

Consider the exact features that suit your business management processes. It depends on your industry and the number of clients you serve. After determining the right solution, compare market offers carefully.

Some of the popular options for small businesses and solopreneurs are HoneyBook and 17hats. In order to assist you in your choice, here is a thorough comparison of the two platforms. You can find detailed information about their features and pricing in the sections below.

Honeybook vs 17hats features and pricing

HoneyBook defines its tool as client management software for small businesses. It is particularly targeted at creative entrepreneurs. HoneyBook is currently available only in the U.S. and Canada.

On the other hand, 17hats is positioned as a suite of business tools for solopreneurs.

Here is a checklist of the features and pricing for both platforms. This overview highlights what you can accomplish with each.

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Both HoneyBook and 17hats focus on booking coordination, contract signing, invoicing, and online payments. However, 17hats offers more features. These additional features target lead generation, client relations, and time management.

You can explore the advantages and disadvantages of the two platforms in the sections that follow.

Pros of honeybook

HoneyBook has minimalistic design and a smooth interface. Here is how its features fared in our assessment.

1. Contract creation and signing made easy

HoneyBook helps creative entrepreneurs focus on creative tasks instead of administrative ones. It simplifies creating, sharing, and signing contracts. The platform’s professional contract templates include all necessary legal information, requiring you to input very few details manually. When sending contracts via HoneyBook, clients can easily find where to sign. You receive notifications when they review and sign the documents.

2. Setting up CRM workflows automates your work

HoneyBook enables easy automation of client relationships with timely and consistent communication. Automate appointment requests, follow-up emails, and thank-you messages. In each project space, create to-do lists and task reminders, and set up automatic payment notifications.

3. HoneyBook integrates with other basic work tools

HoneyBook connects with Gmail and Google Calendar, which is a great plus. This allows you to streamline your communication efforts and easily schedule appointments. It also integrates with QuickBooks for further accounting support. Additionally, the Zapier integration allows you to connect HoneyBook with many other tools and automate actions seamlessly.

Cons of honeybook

HoneyBook proves to be a great solution for creative professionals. It is applicable in other sectors as well, but it lacks some important functionalities such as time tracking and task management. They would make it an all-round platform for a larger scope of businesses.

Pros of 17hats

17hats is an all-round suite of business tools for solo entrepreneurs, and it lives up to the expectations in terms of richness of features.

1. Managing multiple projects just got easier

With 17hats, you can easily run a couple of projects at the same time. You get an overview of the status of each project. You can filter the project dashboard according to leads, active projects and archived ones.

2. 17hats helps you with lead generation and management

You can create lead inquiry forms straight in the platform and then embed them in your website. Once you get an inquiry, the tool can send an automatic initial answer. It also notifies you of a potential lead and stores the collected information from the inquiry.

3. You get a built-in timer too

The time tracking capability is certainly one of the best perks of 17hats. The built-in timer can automatically note the hours you’ve dedicated to a certain project and task. Then on the basis of tracked time, you can issue correct invoices to your clients, as well as keep track of your projects’ profitability.

Read more about the other 17hats alternatives.

Cons of 17hats

It can be a bit difficult to get started with 17hats because of its numerous features and options. The design and user interface can be updated to make the onboarding and overall experience easier.

Pricing

HoneyBook pricing plans and features

HoneyBook offers a straightforward pricing structure with a single plan priced at $39 per month when billed monthly, or $390 annually for a 12-month commitment, which breaks down to $32.50 per month. This plan includes unlimited projects, invoices, and clients. It is suitable for freelancers and small business owners who want an all-in-one client management solution without worrying about caps.

In addition to project and client management, HoneyBook’s plan includes features like automated workflows, online payments, contract templates, and a mobile app. For example, you can automate payment reminders and contract signing, saving time on administrative tasks. HoneyBook also integrates with tools like QuickBooks and Zapier. These integrations help streamline accounting and marketing efforts.

To get started, HoneyBook offers a 7-day free trial with no credit card required, allowing users to test its features risk-free. For freelancers who want to manage client communication, proposals, and payments in one place, HoneyBook’s pricing is competitive and clear. To maximize value, consider the annual plan if you plan to use it long-term.

17hats pricing plans and features

17hats provides tiered pricing with three main plans: Lite at $15/month, Essential at $30/month, and Premier at $45/month when billed monthly. The Essential plan, which is the most popular, includes unlimited projects and clients, email templates, contracts, and invoicing. This makes it a strong contender for freelancers who need comprehensive business management tools.

The Lite plan limits users to 3 active projects, which might suit solo freelancers just starting out. Meanwhile, the Premier plan adds features like advanced workflows, priority support, and phone support. 17hats also offers a 7-day free trial, allowing users to explore the platform before committing. Integration options include QuickBooks and Zapier, similar to HoneyBook, which enable smooth financial tracking and automation.

For small business owners, 17hats’ tiered pricing allows more flexibility based on your current workload and feature needs. If you expect to manage many clients or require advanced automation, consider the Essential or Premier plans. Evaluate your project volume and desired features before choosing a plan.

Customer support

HoneyBook

HoneyBook offers customer support primarily through live chat and email, available Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 6 PM EST. This schedule suits freelancers who work standard business hours and need quick responses during the day. Additionally, HoneyBook provides an extensive online help center with step-by-step guides and video tutorials, helping users troubleshoot common issues independently.

For more complex problems, HoneyBook users can submit support tickets directly through the platform. Response times typically range from a few hours to one business day, depending on the inquiry. In 2024, HoneyBook introduced a community forum where freelancers and small business owners exchange tips and solutions, adding peer support to their official channels.

To maximize HoneyBook’s support, freelancers should prepare detailed descriptions of their issues and screenshots when contacting support. Using the help center’s resources first can often resolve questions faster. Overall, HoneyBook’s customer support is reliable for users who prefer a mix of self-service and direct assistance during weekdays.

17hats

17hats provides customer support through email and live chat, with availability Monday to Friday from 8 AM to 5 PM PST. This timing benefits users on the West Coast or those who start their workday early. In addition to direct support, 17hats offers a comprehensive knowledge base filled with articles and video tutorials updated regularly in 2024 to cover new features and common questions.

One standout feature is 17hats’ weekly live webinars where users can ask questions in real time and learn about platform updates. These sessions are recorded and accessible afterward, which is helpful for freelancers juggling irregular schedules. For urgent issues, 17hats encourages users to submit detailed support tickets, with typical response times within 24 hours on business days.

To get the most from 17hats’ support, freelancers should attend webinars and explore the knowledge base before reaching out. Keeping track of ticket numbers and following up if needed ensures faster resolution. Overall, 17hats balances self-help resources and personal support, making it a solid choice for small business owners needing flexible assistance.

Integrations

HoneyBook integrations

HoneyBook offers seamless integrations with popular tools to streamline your freelance or small business workflow. It connects directly with payment processors like Stripe and PayPal, allowing you to accept payments and deposits easily within your projects. This integration helps reduce manual entry and speeds up client transactions.

Additionally, HoneyBook integrates with calendar apps such as Google Calendar and Outlook, letting you sync appointments and deadlines automatically. For marketing and communication, it supports email platforms like Mailchimp, enabling you to manage newsletters and client follow-ups without leaving the HoneyBook dashboard.

To get started, navigate to the integrations tab in HoneyBook’s settings and connect your preferred apps. This setup can save you hours weekly by automating invoicing, scheduling, and client communication tasks, making HoneyBook a strong choice for freelancers looking to centralize their business tools in 2024.

17hats integrations

17hats integrates with a variety of third-party applications designed to simplify business management for freelancers and small business owners. It supports payment gateways like Stripe and Square, enabling quick and secure client payments directly through your 17hats account. This reduces the need to juggle multiple platforms for billing.

For scheduling, 17hats connects with Google Calendar and Outlook, syncing your appointments and task deadlines automatically. It also integrates with Zapier, opening connections to over 5,000 other apps, including popular tools like QuickBooks for accounting and Mailchimp for email marketing.

Setting up integrations in 17hats is straightforward: access the integrations section in your account settings and follow prompts to link your apps. Utilizing these connections can automate repetitive tasks, improve client communication, and keep your business organized in 2024.

Mobile app

HoneyBook

HoneyBook offers a robust mobile app available for both iOS and Android devices. The app lets freelancers and small business owners manage projects, send invoices, and communicate with clients directly from their phones. This flexibility allows users to stay productive on the go, whether they’re meeting clients or working remotely.

One standout feature is the ability to create and send contracts and proposals within the app, which speeds up client onboarding. Notifications keep you updated on new inquiries and payments, helping you respond promptly. For example, a wedding planner can send a contract immediately after a consultation without waiting to access a desktop.

To make the most of HoneyBook’s mobile app, enable push notifications and regularly update the app to access new features released in 2024. This ensures you won’t miss important client communications or payment reminders, keeping your business running smoothly from anywhere.

17hats

17hats provides a mobile app for iOS and Android that streamlines administrative tasks for freelancers and small business owners. The app supports managing contacts, tracking leads, and sending invoices, making it easier to handle your business without being tied to a computer.

In 2024, 17hats enhanced its app with improved calendar integration and task management features, allowing users to schedule appointments and set reminders effectively. For example, a graphic designer can view deadlines and client meetings in one place, reducing the risk of missed tasks.

To optimize 17hats’ mobile app, connect it with your phone’s calendar and enable notifications. Regularly check the app to update project statuses and send follow-ups, ensuring clients receive timely responses even when you’re away from your desk.

Reporting

HoneyBook reporting features

HoneyBook offers robust reporting tools that help freelancers and small business owners track their financial health and project progress. Users can generate detailed reports on:

• Invoices
• Payments
• Client activity

These features make it easier to monitor cash flow and outstanding balances. The platform also provides insights into booking trends and revenue over customizable time frames, which is essential for strategic planning in 2024.

For example, HoneyBook’s dashboard displays real-time data on upcoming payments and completed projects, allowing users to prioritize tasks effectively. The reporting interface integrates seamlessly with other features like contracts and proposals, so you can see how your signed agreements translate into revenue. This holistic view helps you identify your most profitable clients and services.

To make the most of HoneyBook’s reporting, set up monthly financial reviews using their exportable CSV reports. This allows you to analyze data in Excel or Google Sheets for deeper insights. Regularly reviewing these reports can help you spot late payments early and adjust your marketing strategies to boost bookings.

17hats reporting capabilities

17hats provides comprehensive reporting tools designed to simplify business management for freelancers and small businesses. Its reporting suite includes:

• Financial summaries
• Lead tracking
• Workflow status reports

These help users stay organized and informed about their business performance in 2024. The platform’s reports are customizable, allowing you to focus on metrics that matter most to your business.

One standout feature is 17hats’ automated income and expense reports, which can be generated for specific periods such as quarterly or annually. This is particularly useful for tax preparation and cash flow forecasting. Additionally, 17hats tracks client communication and task completion rates, helping you identify bottlenecks in your workflow.

To leverage 17hats reporting effectively, schedule weekly check-ins to review your lead conversion rates and outstanding invoices. Use the data to refine your client follow-up process and improve your project turnaround times. Exporting reports to PDF or Excel also makes sharing performance updates with partners or accountants straightforward.

Project management

HoneyBook project management features

HoneyBook offers a streamlined project management system designed to keep freelancers and small businesses organized. It centralizes client communication, task tracking, and file sharing in one dashboard, making it easier to manage multiple projects simultaneously. Users can create workflows that automate task assignments and deadlines, which helps reduce manual follow-ups.

For example, HoneyBook’s timeline feature allows you to set milestones and send automatic reminders to clients and team members. This keeps everyone aligned on project progress without constant check-ins. Additionally, HoneyBook integrates with Google Calendar and Zoom, enabling seamless scheduling and virtual meetings directly from the platform.

To maximize HoneyBook’s project management, start by setting up custom workflows tailored to your service process. Use the task automation to reduce repetitive work and ensure deadlines are met. Regularly update project statuses and communicate through the platform to maintain clarity and professionalism with clients.

17hats project management features

17hats provides an all-in-one project management solution that emphasizes task management and client organization. It allows freelancers to create detailed project templates with predefined tasks, deadlines, and automated email sequences. This setup is particularly useful for service providers who handle repetitive projects.

One standout feature is 17hats’ task manager, which offers a clear overview of to-dos sorted by due date and priority. It also supports time tracking, helping freelancers monitor billable hours directly within projects. Integration with popular calendar apps like Outlook and Google Calendar ensures your schedule stays updated across platforms.

To leverage 17hats effectively, build project templates that reflect your typical workflows and automate client reminders for upcoming tasks or payments. Use the task manager daily to keep track of deadlines and update progress. This approach reduces missed deadlines and improves client communication consistency.

Client communication

How HoneyBook streamlines client communication

HoneyBook centralizes all client communication within its platform, making it easy to manage conversations and project details in one place. Users can send messages, share files, and receive notifications without switching apps, which saves time and reduces missed information. For example, HoneyBook’s mobile app allows freelancers to respond to client inquiries quickly while on the go, ensuring timely follow-ups.

HoneyBook also integrates automated reminders and follow-ups that keep clients engaged throughout the project lifecycle. This feature helps reduce no-shows and late responses by sending scheduled emails or texts based on client activity. Additionally, HoneyBook supports customizable email templates, so users can maintain consistent branding and professionalism in every message.

To improve your client communication with HoneyBook, start by setting up automated reminders for key project milestones. Use the platform’s messaging feature to keep all conversations organized and linked to specific projects. Regularly update clients through HoneyBook to build trust and avoid miscommunication, especially when managing multiple clients simultaneously.

How 17hats enhances communication with clients

17hats offers a comprehensive communication hub designed to keep freelancers and small business owners connected with their clients. It combines email, task reminders, and client portals into a single dashboard, allowing users to track conversations and project progress easily. The client portal lets clients view contracts, invoices, and project timelines, reducing back-and-forth emails.

One standout feature in 17hats is its automated workflows, which trigger personalized emails and reminders based on client actions or project stages. For instance, when a client signs a contract, 17hats can automatically send a welcome message and next steps, streamlining onboarding. This automation helps maintain consistent communication without manual effort.

To leverage 17hats for better client communication, customize your email templates to reflect your brand’s tone and style. Use the client portal to give clients easy access to important documents and updates, which enhances transparency. Regularly review your automated workflows to ensure timely and relevant communication throughout each project.

Choosing the right communication tools for your business

Both HoneyBook and 17hats offer robust communication features, but your choice depends on your business needs. HoneyBook excels in mobile-friendly messaging and intuitive automation, making it ideal for freelancers who need quick responses and easy on-the-go access. Meanwhile, 17hats provides a more detailed client portal and workflow customization, suited for businesses that require structured client interactions and document sharing.

Consider your typical client communication style. If you prefer centralized messaging with automated follow-ups, HoneyBook’s interface may be more efficient. If you want clients to self-serve through portals and enjoy detailed workflow automation, 17hats could be a better fit. Both platforms integrate with tools like Gmail and Outlook, so you can maintain your existing email habits while benefiting from enhanced features.

To decide, try both platforms’ free trials focusing on their communication capabilities. Test sending proposals, scheduling reminders, and using client portals to see which aligns best with your workflow. Prioritize tools that reduce manual follow-ups and keep client conversations organized to improve your professionalism and save time in 2024.

Scheduling

HoneyBook scheduling features

HoneyBook offers a built-in scheduling tool that lets freelancers and small business owners manage appointments seamlessly. You can set your availability, share a booking link with clients, and allow them to pick a time that fits both calendars. This reduces back-and-forth emails and keeps your workflow organized.

For example, HoneyBook integrates with Google Calendar and Outlook, so appointments automatically sync across platforms. You can customize booking forms to collect client information upfront, making meetings more productive. In 2024, HoneyBook introduced automated reminders via email and SMS, which help reduce no-shows significantly.

To get started, connect your calendar in HoneyBook’s settings, then create a scheduling link tailored to your services. Share this link on your website or in client communications to streamline appointment booking. This hands-off approach saves time and improves client experience.

17hats scheduling capabilities

17hats provides a robust scheduling system designed to simplify client bookings and calendar management. It supports automated appointment reminders and allows you to set buffer times between meetings, which helps avoid overbooking. These features are essential for freelancers juggling multiple clients.

One standout feature in 17hats is its ability to create multiple scheduling types, such as consultations or project check-ins, each with unique durations and availability. It also syncs with Google Calendar and Outlook, ensuring your schedule stays up to date across devices. In 2024, 17hats improved its mobile app to make scheduling easier on the go.

To maximize 17hats scheduling, define your appointment types clearly and set your working hours in the app. Then, share your personalized booking link with clients through email or your website. Using these tools can reduce scheduling conflicts and improve your professionalism.

file templates

how honeybook handles file templates

HoneyBook offers a robust file template system designed to streamline your client workflows. You can create and save templates for contracts, proposals, and questionnaires, which automatically populate with client details to save time. In 2024, HoneyBook updated its template editor to support rich text formatting and embedded images, making your documents look professional and customized.

For example, freelancers can build a contract template that includes payment terms and project scope, then reuse it for every new client without retyping.

HoneyBook also allows you to set up automated workflows that send these templates at specific project stages, reducing manual follow-ups.

This integration between templates and automation helps keep projects on track and clients informed.

To get started, navigate to the Templates tab in your HoneyBook dashboard and select the document type you want to create.

Customize the template with merge fields like client name or project date, then save it for future use.

Leveraging HoneyBook’s file templates can save you hours each month and reduce errors in client communications.

file templates in 17hats and their benefits

17hats provides a comprehensive file template feature that supports contracts, invoices, questionnaires, and email templates. Its drag-and-drop editor lets you build templates that reflect your brand with logos, colors, and personalized text blocks. In 2024, 17hats enhanced its template system by adding conditional logic, allowing you to show or hide sections based on client responses.

This conditional logic is particularly useful for freelancers who offer multiple service packages. For instance, you can create one contract template that adapts clauses depending on the package selected, eliminating the need for multiple documents. Additionally, 17hats integrates templates with its automated workflows, so documents are sent automatically as projects progress.

To create a file template in 17hats, go to the Templates section and choose your document type. Use the editor to add dynamic fields and set conditional rules if needed. Regularly updating your templates ensures they stay aligned with your current services and legal requirements, which is crucial for maintaining professionalism and compliance.

choosing the right file template system for your business

Choosing between HoneyBook and 17hats for file templates depends on your business needs and workflow preferences. HoneyBook excels in simplicity and visual appeal, making it ideal for freelancers who want quick setup and polished documents without complex customization. In contrast, 17hats offers more advanced features like conditional logic, which benefits businesses with varied service offerings.

Consider how much automation you require. HoneyBook’s seamless integration of templates with automated workflows helps reduce manual tasks, while 17hats provides deeper customization for documents that need to adapt dynamically. Also, review pricing plans as template limits and features can vary between the platforms, affecting long-term scalability.

To decide, try both platforms’ free trials focusing on their template creation and automation capabilities. Test how easily you can build, customize, and send documents relevant to your services. This hands-on approach ensures you select the file template system that boosts your productivity and client experience in 2024.

Payments

HoneyBook payment processing

HoneyBook allows freelancers and small business owners to accept payments directly through its platform using integrated payment processing.

It supports credit cards and ACH bank transfers, making it easy to collect deposits, invoices, and final payments all in one place.

HoneyBook charges a 3% processing fee per transaction for credit cards, while ACH payments incur a 1% fee capped at $5.

Users can set up automatic payment reminders and schedule installment plans, which helps improve cash flow without manual follow-up.

For example, a wedding planner can request a 50% deposit upfront and schedule the rest to be paid in installments before the event date.

HoneyBook also supports multiple currencies, which is helpful for freelancers working with international clients.

To get started with HoneyBook payments in 2024, connect your bank account through the platform’s secure setup.

Then, create and send invoices with payment links embedded.

This streamlines the payment process and reduces delays.

Using HoneyBook’s payment tools can save you time and improve your business’s financial management.

17hats payment features

17hats offers built-in payment processing that supports credit cards and ACH payments, similar to HoneyBook.

It charges 2.9% plus 30 cents per transaction for credit cards and 1% for ACH payments, aligning with industry standards in 2024.

This makes it affordable for freelancers who process multiple payments monthly.

One standout feature of 17hats is its ability to automate payment reminders and late fees, which helps encourage timely payments. For instance, a graphic designer can set a late fee to activate if an invoice remains unpaid after 15 days, reducing the need for manual follow-up. 17hats also integrates with Stripe and PayPal, offering flexibility in payment gateways.

To use 17hats payments, link your Stripe or PayPal account and customize your invoices with clear payment terms. This setup allows you to track payment statuses in real time and send automated receipts. Leveraging 17hats payment automation can improve your business’s cash flow and reduce administrative overhead.

contracts

how honeybook handles contracts

HoneyBook offers a streamlined contract management system designed for freelancers and small business owners to create, send, and sign contracts quickly. Users can customize contract templates directly within the platform, allowing for tailored terms that fit specific client needs. For example, you can add payment schedules, cancellation policies, and scope of work sections without needing external software.

One standout feature is HoneyBook’s e-signature capability, which is legally binding and included in all plans as of 2024. This eliminates the need for third-party signing tools like DocuSign, saving time and costs. Additionally, HoneyBook automatically links contracts to invoices and projects, ensuring all documents stay organized in one place.

To make the most of HoneyBook contracts, start by creating a master template for your most common services. Then, customize each contract per client to reflect project specifics. This approach reduces repetitive work and helps maintain professional consistency. Using HoneyBook’s mobile app, you can also send and get contracts signed on the go, speeding up your workflow.

how 17hats manages contracts

17hats provides a comprehensive contract feature that integrates contract creation, sending, and e-signatures within its all-in-one business management platform. Users can build contracts using customizable templates or start from scratch with a rich text editor. This flexibility helps freelancers address unique project terms effectively.

In 2024, 17hats enhanced its contract system by adding conditional logic, allowing contracts to adapt based on client responses or project details. For example, you can set clauses that appear only if certain services are selected, reducing confusion and improving clarity. Like HoneyBook, 17hats includes legally binding e-signatures without extra fees.

To leverage 17hats contracts, create detailed templates for each service type, incorporating conditional clauses where needed. Use the platform’s automation to send contracts automatically after inquiry forms are submitted, speeding up client onboarding. Also, 17hats stores signed contracts securely, making retrieval easy during tax season or disputes.

key differences between honeybook and 17hats contracts

Both HoneyBook and 17hats offer robust contract features, but their approaches differ in customization and automation. HoneyBook focuses on simplicity with easy-to-use templates and seamless integration with invoices and projects, ideal for freelancers who want a straightforward contract process. In contrast, 17hats provides more advanced customization through conditional logic, which benefits businesses with complex service offerings.

Another difference is in workflow automation. 17hats allows contracts to be triggered automatically by client actions, such as form submissions, which can reduce manual follow-ups. HoneyBook, however, excels in mobile usability, letting users send and sign contracts quickly from smartphones or tablets. Pricing-wise, both platforms include e-signatures in their base plans for 2024, but 17hats’ higher-tier plans unlock more contract automation features.

For freelancers deciding between the two, consider your contract complexity and workflow needs. If you require dynamic contracts with conditional terms, 17hats is the better fit. If you prioritize ease of use and mobile flexibility, HoneyBook will serve you well. Either way, both platforms help you get contracts signed faster, improving cash flow and client trust.

Invoicing

HoneyBook invoicing features

HoneyBook offers a streamlined invoicing system designed to simplify payment collection for freelancers and small business owners. Users can create customized invoices that include multiple line items, taxes, discounts, and payment terms. The platform supports online payments through credit cards and ACH transfers, making it easy for clients to pay directly from the invoice.

One standout feature is HoneyBook’s ability to automate invoice reminders and late fees, reducing the need for manual follow-up.

For example, you can set a reminder to send automatically three days before the due date, helping improve cash flow without extra effort.

Additionally, HoneyBook integrates invoices with contracts and project workflows, so you can send proposals, contracts, and invoices in one seamless package.

To get started, connect your bank account to HoneyBook’s payment system, then create an invoice by selecting a client and adding services or products. Use the built-in templates to maintain a professional look. Regularly review your dashboard to track paid, pending, and overdue invoices, ensuring you stay on top of your finances throughout 2024.

17hats invoicing features

17hats provides a comprehensive invoicing tool tailored for small business owners who want detailed control over billing. You can create invoices with customizable fields, apply taxes based on your state’s 2024 tax laws, and include payment plans or deposits. The platform supports payments via Stripe, PayPal, and credit cards, offering flexibility for clients.

One helpful feature is 17hats’ automated payment reminders and overdue notices, which can be scheduled based on your preferences. For example, you might set reminders at 7 and 14 days past due to encourage timely payments. 17hats also allows you to link invoices with contracts and proposals, providing a unified client experience similar to HoneyBook.

To use 17hats invoicing effectively, start by setting up your payment processors and tax rates. Then, create invoice templates that reflect your brand identity. Regularly monitor the financial reports dashboard to analyze paid versus outstanding invoices, which helps you forecast income and manage your cash flow better in 2024 and beyond.

Lead management

HoneyBook lead management features

HoneyBook offers a streamlined lead management system designed to help freelancers and small business owners capture, track, and convert leads efficiently. It provides customizable contact forms that can be embedded on websites or shared via links, allowing potential clients to submit inquiries directly into the platform. Once a lead is captured, HoneyBook automatically organizes it in a centralized inbox, making it easy to follow up without losing track.

One standout feature is HoneyBook's automation capabilities. Users can set up automated email sequences to nurture leads, such as sending welcome messages or follow-up reminders after a certain number of days. For example, a wedding photographer can automate a thank-you email immediately after a lead inquiry and a follow-up message three days later if there is no response. This helps maintain consistent communication without manual effort.

To make lead management actionable, HoneyBook integrates with popular tools like Zapier and Google Calendar, enabling users to sync appointments and trigger workflows based on lead status changes. Freelancers can also track lead sources to understand which marketing channels bring the most inquiries. Setting up these automations and integrations in 2024 can save time and increase conversion rates.

17hats lead management features

17hats provides a comprehensive lead management system that focuses on capturing leads and moving them through a customizable sales pipeline. It offers a lead capture form builder that integrates with websites and social media, funneling inquiries directly into the platform. Unlike HoneyBook, 17hats allows users to create multiple pipelines, which is useful for businesses offering different services with unique workflows.

One practical advantage of 17hats is its task and workflow automation tied to lead stages. For instance, when a lead moves from 'new inquiry' to 'consultation scheduled,' 17hats can automatically assign tasks like sending contracts or invoices. This feature helps freelancers keep their sales process organized and ensures no step is missed. In 2024, 17hats also supports SMS reminders, which can improve client responsiveness compared to email alone.

17hats integrates with payment processors like Stripe and QuickBooks, allowing users to link lead management directly to billing and accounting. This end-to-end approach helps small business owners monitor the entire client journey from first contact to payment. Setting up these integrations early in the year can improve cash flow and client satisfaction.

Choosing between HoneyBook and 17hats for lead management

Choosing the right lead management tool depends on your business needs and workflow preferences. HoneyBook is ideal for freelancers who want a simple, visually appealing interface with strong automation for email follow-ups and calendar syncing. It suits creative professionals like photographers or event planners who benefit from streamlined communication.

On the other hand, 17hats is better suited for small business owners who require more customization in their sales pipelines and task automation. Its ability to handle multiple pipelines and SMS reminders can be a game-changer for service providers managing diverse client types. Additionally, 17hats’ deeper integration with accounting tools makes it a strong choice for those wanting a unified system.

To decide, consider testing both platforms’ free trials in 2024 to evaluate how their lead management features align with your client acquisition process. Pay attention to automation options, ease of use, and integration capabilities. Setting up your lead management system correctly at the start of the year can boost your client conversion rates and save valuable time.

Bottom line for honeybook vs 17hats

Both platforms fare more or less at the same level in terms of quality and features. HoneyBook is definitely the better solution for creative professionals, while 17hats has a broader range of potential users and boasts a more extended list of features.

It’s not by chance that Bonsai has been dubbed the number one freelance product suite. It’s tailored to meet the administrative and client management needs of solo professionals, making it the best choice whether your choosing between HoneyBook vs 17hats or not.

Bonsai helps you efficiently manage the preparation and sending of client proposals and contracts. It also offers time tracking, project management features, and client CRM. Handling invoices is quick, and you can receive payments in 180 currencies. Bonsai supports your freelance business with accounting and tax features.

You can get started with Bonsai today by signing up for a free trial and explore how it can boost your work.