Check on Invoices Early and Often - at First

I find that most companies have their own rhythms when it comes to payment - their own processes, cash flow, and requirements. Often the buyer at the client - whether editor, corporation, or organization - doesn't think much about those processes. Your first invoice with someone is always tricky because the accounting department has to get you into the account payable system as a vendor, which might require additional authorization than just getting an invoice signed and passed in.

So on that crucial first invoice, I check right when it's due - sometimes asking the person I dealt with, but more frequently, now, going right to the accounts payable department. These people aren't shy about talking money and actually expect to hear from their vendors with problems and questions. Call and ask how the process works and see if they have your invoice. Explain that this is a regular process you go through to make sure things are working smoothly and to better understand their process, and that you're not standing over their shoulder about when you will be paid for this particular check. If there is a problem, like someone not filling out paperwork or an invoice not arriving from the buyer, then you can start taking corrective action rather than waiting weeks more and getting your stomach in a know. It's just business - so just take care of it.