12 May
Grow Your Business

Tech Tips That Make Business Easier

Some benefits of incorporating technology in your business include efficiency, security, and reliability. As a smart entrepreneur, you have probably employed some level of technology into your business. However, to get the best out of your team and your tech, you should explore all avenues for business growth.

Other than the basic digitization of company records, there are some simple technological applications that most entrepreneurs tend to overlook.

Cloud Computing

Cloud computing offers the ease of having your computer resources on demand, especially data storage and computing power, without direct active management by the user. It is growing in popularity, however, many are not taking full advantage of its benefits. The ability to access digital storage capacity is major. We’ve all had bad experiences trying to update business records only to realize our storage is full. Or even worse, when the hard drive crashes and takes years of information down with it. Storing business records in the cloud is safe and it makes information accessible to all members of your team regardless of their location.

Data Analytics

There is a broad range of software designed for the analysis of your company’s data. This software has a wide range of applications from identifying the popularity of your brand to analyzing the productivity of your team. Data analysis is an invaluable tool that analyzes your raw data to find trends and answer questions. It can guide you in making optimum decisions for your business. Some of these data analysis software are very easy to set up and use. A short course on the basics would put you in a position to see a data-based picture of your company.

Productivity Software

The way we communicate and share information is changing. And the way we work and offer our services is bound to follow suit. Productivity software is at the forefront of this change. It influences the way employees complete their job tasks and how employers track their productivity. The days of walking around the office and looking for things are gone. Today, the smart entrepreneur employs productivity software to share information, stop time wasters and understand the time investment needed for success. It is advisable, now more than ever, that employers get ahead of the curve and begin using productivity software now.

The basic application of cloud computing, data analytics and productivity software can be done by you. However, to get the best out of today’s technology, agencies and consulting firms dedicated to infusing technology into businesses, is the best way to go. Many offer done for you, done with you or do it yourself services that will allow you to set your business up for success.

23 Jan
Grow Your Business, Start Your Business

Starting a Business with Zero Experience

Don’t let the fear that comes from no experience stop you from starting your business.  The art of becoming an official entrepreneur is both exhilarating and demanding.  There are many emotions that emerge while building your business.  But, don’t be discouraged, there are many solutions!  In fact that are some challenges you may be able to avoid.  Below there are three challenges that occur as a result of little to zero business experience: 

Unstable Cash Flow
People often start their business with ideals of cash flow but no real plan that guarantees return on your investment.  It’s important that you have an accessible cash flow with the ability to cover expenses.   Equally important is that you are tracking your business cash.  Business doesn’t run without cash flow but you would be surprised how many entrepreneurs do not know how to manage their cash.  Remember managing your business budget allows you to have a financial overview of what your business needs.  Without the ability to do so, your business is limited with more promise of loss than growth.  Don’t put the open sign up and open the business doors if you don’t know what it will cost you. 

Time Management 

Have you ever started your day knowing what you want to get done and gotten distracted by emails, addressing challenges or dealing with the non-stop ringing of the phone? You are not alone.  Many entrepreneurs struggle to manage their time with too much to do and not enough time in the day.    However, to increase business success, you must be able to effectively manage your time.  It is vital to manage time wisely.  Start managing your time, by managing your day.  Spend time scheduling your day, BEFORE, you plug in to the digital world.  Then, hop on the computer and schedule your day.  Finally, follow your schedule and manage your time.  Once you have developed the habits of effective time management, you will find you can deal with almost anything.

Lack of Knowledge

The greatest challenge begins with a lack of knowledge.  Failure to understand your market, your audience and current trends can lead to numerous challenges.  One of the major facets of business success is knowledge, research and more knowledge.  In order to effectively manage and GROW your business you must KNOW your business.    Without acquiring good business knowledge, you won’t acquire good business profit.  You must be willing to do your business research before you can be of service to your customers.  Being unfamiliar with your market niche can create unwelcomed business chaos.  In order to equip yourself ongoing knowledge, you are equipped to manage business operations, business inventory and business teams, your business could face many difficult situations.