If you’re a self-employed business owner, it is easy to feel the weight of the world on your shoulders. But you don’t have to carry it alone or without a bit of technological assistance. From smart ways to keep yourself up and running, and learning how (and to whom) to delegate tasks, you’ve got more tools than any other generation of entrepreneurs.
Tools and Tech
Let’s start with the technology that helps you run your business. You likely have a top-of-the-line desktop or laptop, but if your mobile device is lacking, you’ll miss out on opportunities to work when you’re away from your desk. A great phone will ensure that you can post product images to social media, answer customer questions, and email quotes whenever you want, from wherever you are.
Two of the most popular smart devices on the market today are the iPhone 11 Pro Max and the Samsung Galaxy S10. Each of these devices is more than capable of helping you run your business. The iPhone’s perks are exceptional battery life and a triple camera system. The Samsung’s camera has fingerprint sensors and a high screen-to-body ratio.
Whether your an Apple person or an Android person, your devices should be equipped with apps that keep you on track. An advanced appointment management system can remind you of upcoming meetings and broadcast notifications to all involved. Keeping track of your day will help you make a good impression on your clients, which is crucial when you operate on an appointment-only schedule.
People and Places
Tech tools can only take you so far — the people you put into your business are its true foundation. This does not mean, however, that you have to run out and hire a receptionist, sales manager, or a plethora of other employees. As Nation1099 points out, you can access these types of assistance and more by tapping into the freelance marketplace.
Web Design
One area that you should absolutely outsource is web design and site management. E-commerce is in position to become a $4.5 trillion industry by 2021. Because of this, virtually all online sellers are embattled in a fierce and ongoing competition. Your web designer will ensure that your site is not only visually pleasing but they can also work with your photographer, content strategist, and other marketing professionals to provide valuable information for your customers. They will also have the ability to create a custom site if your client base demands it.
Other types of contract help to consider are marketing, data entry, and customer service. These three areas tend to take up a ton of time that might not be the best use of your skills. Evaluate where your strengths lie and don’t be afraid to admit when someone else might be a better fit for the task. Remember, delegating work is all part of the management and ownership experience.
Even if your business is run almost 100% online, there may be times when you need a brick-and-mortar location to operate effectively. Thankfully, most major cities – as well as some smaller communities – have co-working spaces available. Not only does this offer you an office to sit down and conduct meetings, but many further provide access to printers, scanners, and other pieces of technology that you may not own.
Even solopreneurs need a little boost every now and then, and tools like smartphones, apps, freelance help, and co-working spaces can provide it. This is just a small sampling of ways that the digital age lets you run your business with the power of more: more technology, more people, and more support than ever before. Put it to work for you!
About the Author:
Chelsea Lamb has spent the last eight years honing her tech skills and is the resident tech specialist at Business Pop. Her goal is to demystify some of the technical aspects of business ownership.
