This guide will help you create, customize, and send Shrlock contract templates using Google Docs' built-in eSignature feature. By following these steps, you can streamline your contract process, present a professional brand, and save time with reusable templates.
Step 1: Make a Copy of the Shrlock Template
Open the Shrlock contract template link.
Click File > Make a copy.
Rename the document to something recognizable, such as "Standard Retainer Template" or "[Your Company Name] Contract Template."
Save the file to your Google Drive in a dedicated folder for contract templates.
Tip: This becomes your master version - your starting point for all client contracts.
Step 2: Customize the Template for Your Business
Before sending the contract to clients, personalize the template to match your brand:
Update our template with your company name, logo, and brand colors.
Update all the highlighted fields to match your business details.
Adjust the services, fees, and terms to reflect your typical engagements.
Replace any placeholder text (e.g., [Consultant Name]) with your business information.
Pro Tip: Once customized, your branded template can be reused and copied for each new client engagement.
Step 3: Create a Client-Specific Contract
For each new client:
Open your branded master template.
Click File > Make a copy. (This copy will be used for the client)
Rename the file using the client’s name, such as "ABC Company – Retainer Agreement".
Fill in the client-specific details:
Client name and company
Project start and end dates
Scope of work and fees
Note: Shrlock templates already include e-signature fields to send for acknowledgement through Google Docs - no additional setup is needed.
Step 4: Add Recipients for E-Signature
Once the client contract is ready:
Click eSignature in the top-right corner of Google Docs (or go to Tools > eSignature).
Under Recipients, enter your name and email, then add your client’s name and email.
Confirm each signer is assigned to the correct fields (Consultant Signature and Client Signature).
Step 5: Send the Contract for Signature
Click Request signature.
Review the email preview and (optionally) add a message to your client.
Click Send.
Your client will receive an email to sign the contract. After both parties sign, a PDF copy of the completed agreement is automatically saved to your Google Drive.
Step 6: Stay Organized with Folder Structure
To keep your contracts easy to find, we recommend this folder setup in Google Drive:
📁 Shrlock Templates – the original templates from Shrlock
📁 My Master Templates – your customized, branded versions
📁 Client Contracts – executed agreements by client
Troubleshooting: eSignature Not Visible?
If you do not see the eSignature option in Google Docs:
Make sure you are signed in with a Google Workspace account.
Some personal Gmail accounts may not yet support this feature.
You Are All Set
You now have a repeatable, professional system for sending HR consulting contracts, customized with your brand, powered by Shrlock templates, and signed easily through Google Docs.
Please don't hesitate to reach out for additional support at [email protected]