Entrepreneurs everywhere look for tools to help them be successful. When starting a business, you are bombarded with needs and options. Below are the 6 top tools for entrepreneurs.
Tool 1: Communication management tool
This one sounds pretty obvious because it is. You have to communicate with others. Sometimes, you want to communicate online, but it’s also nice to be able to share information more quickly.
We suggest three communication tools: email, instant messaging, and direct voice. Gmail is free and easy to use, and it integrates well with most of the other components we will discuss. Slack is our favorite for instant messaging, and Voxer is our choice for direct voice messaging.
Tool 2: Storage management system
A storage management system is a place to store all of your files. Your computer has a storage system directly on your device. We create folders to help keep this system organized. But anyone who has ever had a computer crash knows the value of cloud storage.
Cloud storage is an online storage management system. Google Drive is free and easy to use, so it’s our top pick, but Dropbox and Microsoft OneDrive are other options.
Tool 3: Client management system
Another one of the top tools for entrepreneurs is a CRM. A client management system or client relationship management (CRM) system is a system set up to manage an entrepreneur’s relationship with a client. It’s pretty simple. A potential client finds your business via a landing page (website, Facebook, IG). They want to communicate with you, so they send you whatever you have set up on your landing page (name, email, needs, etc.). Once they send you that message, what happens? Does your email sit there until you’re ready to answer it? Not if you have a CRM!
With a properly set up CRM, your lead will trigger a series of actions. Your potential client can receive an automated email with whatever you want it to say, or it can direct them to a specific purchase. It may create a series of emails. The system helps you nurture your relationship with the client.
CRMs include programs like HoneyBook and Dubsado are two of the best out there.
Tool 4: Project management system
Once you have a client, you’ll want to use a project management system to work through your process. These systems are especially handy if you have a team. Essentially, you set up your process for a job, and then add tasks, assign those tasks to individuals, and the responsible party works through that process.
Most project management systems also have automation, so when one task is completed, it triggers another task. The system keeps everyone focused and on task.
Our favorite project management systems include ClickUp and Monday.
Tool 5: Design tool
Every entrepreneur knows you need to create items for your business. Logos, branding boards, social media posts, flyers, and other creations are useful for your business. Some programs are expensive and require a lot of training and practice. (We’re looking at you, Adobe!).
Canva is free and has so many options that we can’t get enough of!
Tool 6: Financial management system
Ultimately, you need to manage all of your income and expenses. If you’re keeping it simple, you may use a spreadsheet, but when it comes down to it, there are too many robust programs for you to hand over a spreadsheet to your accountant at the end of the year.
Our favorite is Wave; it’s like a free (and less complex) version of Quickbooks.
There are other tools that are beneficial to have, including a social management planning tool, recording tools (audio and video), and more. If you’re ready to learn more about what tools you need, schedule a call to chat about how we at Avrah Virtual can help!
