One of the things I love about technology is the ability it has to provide greater options for business. There are a number of tools I use to manage my online freelancing business, and I know several other business owners who make use of various tools to grow their businesses online.
If you hope to grow your business using the Internet, here are seven tools to consider:
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Workflow/Project Management Software
One of the best ways to grow your business is to create systems that make you more productive. Look for project management software that meets your needs and is easy to use. Tools like WorkFlowMax can help you integrate all of your systems so that they are easy to see and manage, cutting down on the time you spend organizing the information. At the very least, it helps to set up reminders and calendars so that you can see when things are due. I use the calendar app on my iPhone, as well as Google Docs to help me stay organized and manage projects. However, if you have a more involved business with multiple team members, you’ll want some “real” workflow management software.
Meeting App
I regularly hold business meetings from my home office. As long as you turn your office into something that is reasonably professional, you don’t need to worry about appearing on video. I often use Google Hangouts or Skype when holding business meetings, but there are also other videoconferencing options like ClickMeeting.
Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software
This tool is necessary if you want to better manage your customer/client relations. Good CRM software can help you manage leads, followups and more. Programs like those offered by Salesforce and Insightly can help you close more quality sales and analyze different factors to help you retain the customers you have. If you are in the business of regularly interacting with customers and clients, this type of software is a must.
Email Response Program
Building your list is one of the most important things you can do as an online business owner. Whether you are trying to build a newsletter list for your blog or whether you hope to build a solid list for sales and promotions, the right email response program can help. There are a number out there, but I use GetResponse on my websites. There are a number of options, including one-click subscriptions and different options for social sharing, as well as essential analytics to help you stay on top of which actions are most effective.
Social Media Management App
Want to build your following and engage with customers and clients? Social media is the place to be. However, it can be time-consuming and tedious to manage your social media accounts. Putting it all in one place can be very helpful, as can scheduling. I hired a virtual assistant a couple years ago to help me with my social media management.
Even with someone else managing most of my social media, I still use a management app. There are apps like HootSuite and Oktopost that can help you schedule posts on various social media platforms, as well as run analytics to help you figure out what is working well for you.
Content Management System
You need a system for creating and managing content. There are a number of different strategies for building business content for your site, including content delivery. The most basic systems can be part of your WordPress site. There are plugins that help you manage editorial schedules and lets your team know what stage the content is at. Whether you put together a team to manage the content for you, or use some other system, you’ll need a way to efficiently assemble and distribute quality content.
Media Management Tools
Finally, don’t forget about media and visibility. One way to grow your business is to set yourself up as an expert. This means taking advantage of the tools available to you to connect with media. I like to use HARO as a way to respond to journalist and media requests. You might be surprised to discover that you can get good media coverage for you and your business with the right pitch.
Also, be sure to use various tools to track your mentions. The most basic is setting up Google Alerts for your business or your name. But there are also other media management tools like CustomScoop that can help you keep track.
When you have a plan to grow your business, the right tools can help you put your energy into more effective activities.
