No matter what size business they own, every entrepreneur has numerous tools they rely on to help them run said business. However, with new and improved tools cropping up seemingly all the time and so many to choose from, how do you know which ones you really need?
With this shortlist of the best new tools for the busy business owner, you’ll have a better idea of how to save yourself time, money, and headache. Learn more.
Accurate Accounting
Keeping accurate records of the company’s finances is critical to the operation but when done manually, it becomes a grueling task. Arguably one of the most important tools for you to have on hand is a reputable accounting software, if not an actual accountant.
Your hours and days should be spent running your business and generating revenue, not tracking expenses and the bottom line.
Text Message Records
If your company interacts with customers via SMS/mobile text, a great tool that many overlook is archiving software. Every state has open record laws and if you receive a lawful request to produce that data, you could run into a serious legal issue if you’re unable to do so.
Even if you utilize archiving of your website and social media, having a text message record is not only critical, it is extremely useful. The data is stored and easily accessible, which gives you the opportunity to utilize them to discover trends, reveal successful campaigns, monitor levels of engagement over time, and much more. Furthermore, in the event of harassment, stalking, or breaches, you have an indisputable record that is admissible in court.
Other Great Tools
Whatever your business provides or sells, many of these tools can be critical time-savers. Here’s some tried-and-true options to help you get organized:
- Evernote – streamlines note-taking and storage.
- Dropbox – cloud storage and file synchronization that lets you store and easily access all of your data and files using any Internet-connected device.
- Hootsuite – gives you a single point to keep track of all your social media accounts.
- MailChimp – a trusted email and marketing management system.
- Control4 – an automation system that is designed to save time by managing daily work.
- Trello – lets you create boards to categorize project tasks and ideas.
- Skype – no longer simply used to connect with family and friends, especially now in the age of so many employees working remotely. Skype is the most popular platform for calling and chatting online and is definitely a tool you should have.
All of these tools, from accounting software to text message record archives and everything in between can help save you time, money, and a whole lot of headaches.
However, one of the most important best practices you can implement is making certain that you research, read reviews, and compare other options before you try implementing those new tools that crop up. While they may sound fantastic on the surface, it could very well be a case of “sounding too good to be true” or they’re simply unable to deliver as promised.
With the above tools in your arsenal, you’re definitely going to be freed up to do what you do—running your business.
