There are so many apps and platforms available to use; all the buzzwords and jargon can be confusing, so how do you choose which apps are really essential?
We all decide what’s best for our individual needs and working style, but here’s a head start list of 10 very useful apps that I use to run my business… among others!
1. Trello – I use Trello to set up ‘to do’ lists and brainstorm ideas and graphics. I can share Trello boards with my Clients meaning there is a central point for sharing which is easier than writing endless emails and trying to follow the trails at a later stage to see all the details. The alternative is a shared drive – but Trello lists all in an easy to see list.
2. HubSpot – I use HubSpot for my business to keep track on all my contacts and leads. It’s a free CRM system which allows me to record contacts, companies and deals – all the contact details, conversations, calls, emails and meetings can be recorded and downloaded to my phone in case I need them whilst on the move.
3. LinkedIn – I use LinkedIn for networking my business and keeping in touch with business associates. I make a point of checking my feed once a week and posting at least once a month. I have in the past obtained leads and generated work from LinkedIn – which just goes to show that you don’t need to be posting every day to get results!
4. Toggl – I use Toggl to record the time I work for each Client. At the end of the month I can draw down a report totalling all the hours and produce a list of tasks completed by day. It’s very useful when I come to produce invoices at the end of the month.
5. Twitter – Twitter is used to promote my business and blogs. I keep an eye out every week to check for comments and analyse reach.
6. WhatsApp – Most Clients now want to use this as it is very secure and free. It’s easy to use and set up groups.
7. Canva - How did I ever live without Canva? I use it to produce all sorts of layouts and graphics from social media posts to small ads, leaflets and slides. You can use it for free but I choose to pay the premium to get more graphics and share files with my Clients.
8. Bitly – This allows me to create short links which are then attached to social media posts. Bitly records how many hits each link gets making analysis of posts easy and straight forward.
9. Buffer – Buffer is a free social media scheduling app which I have set one up for each of my Clients. I can line up all my posts in an organised fashion to be posted on scheduled dates. It’s much easier than trying to schedule on several different platforms.
10. Mailchimp – Finally Mailchimp is used for producing and scheduling email campaigns. Beautifully designed templates are easy to create and the database is automatically updated after each campaign. HubSpot can also be used for email broadcasts and I am currently using both platforms for different Clients.
So that’s it! That explains some of the magic behind my work. Feel free to get in touch for more information or if you would like help!
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