How Do You Sign a Document Online?

What is an Electronic Signature?

An electronic signature, often abbreviated as e-sign, is a digital equivalent of a handwritten signature. It serves as a legally binding way to indicate consent or approval on electronic documents, just like signing with pen and paper.

Since digital sales are changing rapidly, the need for efficient and secure document-signing methods has led to the widespread adoption of electronic signatures. Advancements in technology have made e-signatures easily accessible, allowing individuals and businesses to sign documents remotely and securely, thereby streamlining processes and reducing reliance on traditional paper-based methods. Let's explore how we can adopt and use e-signs through our sales process.

Electronic vs Digital Signature

Before diving into how to sign documents online, it's important to differentiate between electronic and digital signatures.

While both terms are often used interchangeably, they have distinct characteristics. An electronic signature is a broad term encompassing various signing methods, including typing your name, digitally rendering a signature with a mouse or stylus, or using dedicated electronic signature software.

On the other hand, a digital signature refers to a specific type of electronic signature that is based on cryptographic technology. Digital signatures use encryption to verify the authenticity and integrity of a document, providing an extra layer of security and authentication.

3 Reasons to Use E-Signatures

Electronic signatures (e-sign) have become increasingly prevalent across various industries in digital sales. Here are three compelling reasons why businesses should leverage e-signatures:

1. Efficiency and Convenience

E-signatures streamline the document signing process, eliminating the need for printing, scanning, or mailing physical documents. With e-signature solutions like Forward, signing documents becomes a matter of a few clicks or taps, saving valuable time for both businesses and clients. Whether you're in the office, on the go, or working remotely, e-signatures provide unparalleled convenience, allowing transactions to be completed swiftly and seamlessly.

2. Enhanced Security and Compliance

E-signature platforms employ advanced encryption technologies and authentication measures to ensure the security and integrity of signed documents. By utilizing cryptographic techniques, e-signatures provide protection that surpasses traditional pen-and-paper signatures.

Additionally, e-signature solutions adhere to industry regulations and legal standards, such as ESIGN, UETA, and eIDAS, ensuring the legality and enforceability of electronically signed documents. This heightened security and compliance give businesses peace of mind, knowing that their sensitive information is protected against unauthorized access or tampering.

3. Cost Savings and Environmental Sustainability

Transitioning to e-signatures offers significant cost savings for businesses by reducing expenses associated with paper-based processes. It's encouraging to see companies to take steps towards environmental sustainability. Eliminating the use of paper, printing, postage, and storage not only helps cut down on operational costs but also has a positive impact on the environment. By reducing paper consumption and waste, companies can demonstrate their commitment to eco-friendly practices and minimize their carbon footprint. It's a win-win situation where businesses can save money and contribute to a better planet at the same time.

Moreover, e-signature solutions typically offer scalable pricing plans, allowing companies to pay only for the needed features and usage, further optimizing cost-effectiveness.

Step-by-step Signing a Document Online

Signing a document online is simple and convenient, thanks to modern e-signature solutions. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

1. Choose an E-Signature Platform: Select reputable e-signature software like Forward, explicitly designed for modern B2B sales teams.

2. Upload Your Document: Import the document you need to sign into the e-signature platform. This could be a contract, agreement, proposal, or any other document requiring signatures.

3. Add Signature Fields: Identify where signatures are required within the document and add digital signature fields accordingly. Most e-signature platforms offer intuitive tools for placing signature fields with ease.

4. Sign Electronically: Once signature fields are added, sign the document electronically using your preferred method. This could involve typing your name, drawing your signature, or selecting a pre-designed signature template.

5. Invite Others to Sign: If multiple parties need to sign the document, use the e-signature platform to send signing invitations via email. Recipients can then access the document, review its contents, and sign electronically.

6. Finalize and Save: Once all parties have signed the document, finalize the process within the e-signature platform. The completed document will be securely stored and accessible for future reference.

Forward eSign to Close More Deals

Forward Digital Sales Rooms simplifies the e-signature process and empowers sales teams to close more deals efficiently. How? Let’s break it down;

• Centralizes the entire buyer journey within a single platform.
• Creates personalized sales rooms for prospects.
• Uploads customized sales materials in seconds.
• Invites buyers with a single link.
• Seamlessly integrates e-signature capabilities into the sales process.
• Streamlines contract management and engagement.
• Enhances productivity and accelerates deal closure.
• Provides a competitive edge in the sales environment.

E-signs offer a modern, efficient, and secure way to sign documents online. With Forward's innovative Digital Sales Rooms, businesses can use e-signatures to streamline their sales processes, support clients, and achieve greater success in B2B sales.