As a small business owner, you probably spend as much time working outside the office as you do at your desk. As you’ve undoubtedly discovered, when you are on the go, you need to not only have access to your office files, you also need access to the online tools that help you do and track everything from coordinating your company’s social media campaigns to planning and managing events.
Below are seven apps that no small business owner should be without:
1. LogMeIn/LogMeIn Ignition
LogMeIn is a remote access app that allows you to log into any web-connected computer that you set up with the LogMeIn software, from your mobile device. Out in a client meeting and need to access information on your office computer? No Problem. Stuck on a delayed commuter train and the slides you promised to provide for your morning management meeting (which you are about to miss) are on your home computer? It’s LogMeIn to the rescue.
The app also takes care of security by creating an encrypted connection between your mobile device and the target computer. LogMeIn is the iOS app and LogMeIn Ignition is the Android version.
2. CamCard
CamCard is great for when you’re out networking at a large event and you need to store new contacts quickly and accurately. It’s also great for helping make sure you don’t lose the business cards you get during interviews, business meetings or even (yes, it happens) on the go. The app scans business cards and automatically stores them in your phone’s contacts. No need to hold on to keep track of a bunch of cards or worry about manually entering the information.
The app also lets you create groups, and message or email the contacts entered into the app. CamCard is available for Android and iOS.
3. DoubleDutch
DoubleDutch provides a convention mobile app that lets you get the most out of all of the events that you host, attend or help sponsor. It provides tools like a mobile agenda and push notifications to keep your event participants up-to-date on scheduled activities; and attendee networking, which allows event participants to connect with others.
The app also has reporting and analytics tools, such as attendee polling, to keep you apprised of which workshops, exhibitors, and speakers are generating buzz, and which are falling flat. Doubledutch is available on both Android and iOS platforms.
4. Slice
Slice lets you generate receipts for purchases from any online retailer. It comes in really handy at expense time because it also stores and organizes the receipts, making it easier to keep track of them. The app can also alert you when vendors have a price drop in items that you purchase often, and if there are any product recalls. Now, if you need to make an on-the-fly purchase while you’re out planning for events, you know that you can get what you need at the best price, and have a record of the transaction. Slice is available on Android and iOS.
5. Pulse
Pulse gives you up-to-date news information from a variety of sources including magazines, blogs, and social networks. The app lets you filter topics based on your needs, and it also allows you to bookmark items for later, if you don’t have time to read them immediately. You can also share the news items using the apps twitter and Facebook integration features. Pulse is available on Android and iOS. It’s great for keeping track of competitors, monitoring your reputation, etc. Think of it as an immediate Google Alert but for everything, not just news sites.
6. Any.do
As far as organizational apps, go, Any.do is pretty straightforward (unlike the app everybody else likes to tout, Evernote). Any.do syncs your lists across your devices. That’s it. This way, you don’t have to worry about carrying around a notebook or losing track of anything. For list makers (which is most small business owners), this is a fantastic little app.
7. HipChat
HipChat is a great tool for small business owners because it allows real time communication without bogging down your mobile device or computer with a lot of software. It allows simultaneous “team” spaces (which operate like regular chat rooms) and one-on-one private sessions from wherever you are. It’s like text messaging but on steroids…and better because it operates across platforms. You can continue a one-on-one you started while sitting at your laptop via your phone while you’re out at a meeting or getting lunch.
Which apps have you found the most helpful?
Special Offer: Complimentary Consultation
Three Girls Media, Inc. is a public relations and social media management agency founded in the heart of California’s Silicon Valley with a team in the Seattle area. We love working with small and emerging companies across the nation to raise their brand awareness and name recognition. We offer a complimentary 30-minute phone consultation with our CEO and can answer your questions and discuss your specific marketing needs.
Call 408-218-2391 or Contact us today to arrange yours!
Photo Credit: KROMKRATHOG via freedigitalphotos.net