5 Tools Business Owners Can Use to Add Professionalism to Their Companies
First impressions count when you run a small business. To portray professionalism and confidence in business–or even appear bigger than you are–here are five tools that can help you, without breaking the bank:
1. 99Designs
If you hope to create a professional look for almost anything you are working on, 99Designs can help. From designing a professional logo to creating an attractive website, you can get help from this site. You can even get help designing graphics for your packaging (bags and boxes), t-shirts and car wraps. I know business owners who have used 99Designs to come up with cover designs for their books. No matter what you are looking for, you can get help through crowdsourcing from multiple designers for one relatively low price.
2. Fiverr
If you want some quick help and professional looking and sounding video and audio, Fiverr can help. Almost all of the business owners I know have used Fiverr at some point for something. I used Fiverr for video intros and outros that look professional and attractive. My business partners have gone to Fiverr for audio help as well. From voice-overs to help with animation to online marketing plans, you can find good deals on professional business services.
3. GoToMeeting
Looking to connect with clients or business partners on the other side of the country--or world--without leaving town? GoToMeeting can help. It’s easy to meet in HD, which helps you look more professional, and you have the advantage of high-quality audio. You can share your screen, create a custom URL that provides you with a permanent virtual meeting room, and even record your sessions.
4. Due.com
Even the way you invoice can add a level of professionalism to your business. Rather than struggle with invoicing, business owners can use a service like Due.com to help create professional-looking invoices. You can brand your invoices with your own information, and even create templates and recurring invoices so that you don’t have to struggle to remember to send the information. Due.com can integrate with a variety of accounting software, so it helps you stay on top of the situation.
5. Content Creation
One of the most important aspects of your business, especially if you have an online home, is content creation. If you want better content creation--content with a professional touch--you can turn to websites like Skyword, Contently, and NewsCred. All of these sites connect companies with professional writers who know their stuff.
These sites do cost more than you might pay on freelance marketplaces, but the quality of writing is generally higher. If you want to add a professional touch to the face you show potential clients and customers, the content you offer is key.
With the right online tools, you can save time and money by outsourcing some of your more mundane tasks. Then you’ll have more time to focus on actually building your business--and you’ll appreciate the professional and attractive face you present to the world.
