More Tools For A LIP Business
Running a business whilst overseas or traveling can be a challenge at times but incredibly rewarding at others…especially when in between your ‘work’ you can pop to the best beach in the Caribbean to float on your back in the ocean!
I’ve had some emails about the main tools I use to run our business whilst we travel, so here they are:
For email & calendar functions:
Google Aps - which lets me use the power of gmail but have my own brand and own domain name.
For managing clients:
HighriseHQ - to keep track of prospects & clients, although now that I am using Google aps, I don’t seem to need this so much.
For invoicing clients:
SimplyBill - for simple tracking & chasing of invoices.
For marketing & mailing lists:
AWeber [aff] - sending out ezines & keeping in touch with clients & prospects.
For collecting payments:
Paypal
For group conference calls:
Conference Genie (with UK users)
For talking to clients:
Skype - with SkypeOut calling credit plus a UK SkypeIn number for clients to call me.
For sending & receiving faxes:
Efax
For managing my daily & other To Do lists:
BackpackIt - I know there are plenty others but this one suits me and is simple to use.
For scheduling client consults & coaching calls:
Instant-Scheduling - I don’t use this quite as much right now but when I hire my VA, will begin to use it more.
For backing up my files online:
Carbonite - I tried X-drive intially but found it really fiddly so gave up and this seems to work just fine.
Whilst I like to think of myself as an ‘early adopter’, I’m always open to new, better suggestions so just leave me a comment….
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Comments
Thanks for sharing your list. I’m curious, what are your thoughts on web applications vs desktop applications when there’s no collaboration needed (like Backpackit).
Sometimes desktop applications make sense because an internet connection isn’t always available, but a web application means you won’t lose your data if your laptop’s hard drive fails.
Hi Hugh
Interesting question…I personally still prefer desktop apps although do use some web apps. I think it’s important whatever you use to have a backup of either. Given the issues we’re having with internet access in South Africa now, I’m pleased I still use MS office and dreamweaver for some stuff and don’t constantly have to log in to do the basics and run the business.
I’m leaning towards desktop apps with online backups or website apps with desktop backups, if that makes sense!! Basically, I like to have backups whichever type I use….
Lea
I’m glad to hear you’re giving Carbonite a try. If you have any questions or comments about the program, please let me know.
– Len Pallazola
Carbonite Customer Support