Free download
Free SOP Template for Small Business
Get one recurring task out of your head and onto paper, so someone else (or an AI assistant) can do it the same way every time.
- Editable template in Word (works in Google Docs) and PDF
- A filled-in example for onboarding a new customer
- A copy-and-paste AI prompt that turns a voice memo into a finished SOP
- Approval gates built in so money and customer promises stay in your hands
Download the free template:
Download Word version Download PDFFree to use in your own business. The Word version also opens in Google Docs.
What is an SOP, and why does a small business need one?
A standard operating procedure (SOP) is a short, step-by-step document that explains how a recurring task is done. For a small business, SOPs are how you stop being the only person who knows how things work. They let you hand off work, train people faster, and give an AI assistant the context it needs to help.
How to write your first SOP in 20 minutes
- Pick one task you do every week that only you know how to do.
- Record a voice memo walking through it, as if training a new hire. (See voice memo to text.)
- Paste the transcript into an AI assistant with the prompt in the template. It drafts the SOP.
- Review it, add approval gates, and run it once yourself from the page.
- Hand it off and set a review date.
Want help turning SOPs into a full system? Read what to automate first, or join the AI-Powered Owner community.
Frequently asked questions
What is an SOP template?
An SOP (standard operating procedure) template is a ready-made outline for writing down how a recurring task is done: purpose, trigger, roles, tools, numbered steps, approval points, what to do when something goes wrong, and records to keep.
What should a small business SOP include?
At minimum: why the task matters, what triggers it, who does it, the tools needed, numbered steps with a clear finish line for each, approval points for money or customer promises, and how to handle problems.
Can I use AI to write an SOP?
Yes. Record a voice memo walking through the task, transcribe it, and paste it into an AI assistant with the prompt included in this template. Then review and correct the draft before anyone uses it.
Is the template free?
Yes. It's free to use in your own business. You get it as an editable Word document (also works in Google Docs) and a PDF.