Contributed post
What is the most appealing thing about running your own business? Aside from the chance to make more money, the ability to set your own hours and work flexibly is a major part of the appeal.
Thanks to the wonders of modern technology, it’s easier than ever to work from any location, any time. From creating marketing graphics to analysing your customer database and from running over your invoices to using an enterprise fax server, you can do it all on the go, using just your iPad and a few brilliant apps.
Remote Access With LogMeIn
If you travel a lot and need access to details and documents – without a PA perched at the end of the phone – then LogMeIn can help you access any desktop remotely. Suddenly everything you need is right there at your fingertips.
On The Go Invoicing With Freshbooks
Need to chase up that overdue invoice on the road? Business accounting can be handled anywhere with this online invoicing service. Generate your invoices and chase up missing payments remotely, take payments via PayPal and manage your payroll all without setting foot off your sofa.
Quick Promotions With HootSuite
Any successful marketing strategy involves a big piece of social media in this day and age, and the problem is that social media never sleeps. It’s a full time job, but as an entrepreneur you wear so many different hats it can be difficult to find enough time for constant promotional work. HootSuite can help to resolve this problem, by amalgamating all your social channels and pulling them into a single stream. You can also schedule posts in advance, no matter where in the world you are. So your marketing can be ticking over whether you’re sat on a beach in Costa Rica or attending your child’s Christmas concert.
Project Management With ProofHub
No matter the size of your business, project management is something you need to get right from the start. There is always a need for slick collaboration with clients, streamlining your team and organising your own workload. Get your task planning, project discussions and related documents all in one place with ProofHub. Keeping everyone in the loop becomes simple, you don’t have to spend hours sending chasing emails and the whole thing can be accessed via an app.
Inspiration With Podcasts
As an entrepreneur, innovation needs to be constantly at the forefront of your mind, but sometimes it’s hard to keep feeling inspired when you have such a long to do list. Podcasts can be an amazing resource to keep you switched on and connected to the latest macroenvironmental factors and industry trends that will affect your business. Shows like School of Greatness, Entrepreneurs On Fire, and YouPreneur will challenge your perspective and give you renewed focus.
Customer Service With HelpScout
Customers are the lifeblood of your business, and you simply can’t afford to ignore their concerns. With online reviews and social media, unhappy customers have ability to ruin your business, so issues need to be handled carefully and quickly. HelpScout provides an easy portal to connect with your customers and give the personalised interaction that will improve their experience.