Running a small business in 2024 will require a different set of skills and tools than in previous years. With technology advancing at an exponential rate, small business owners need extra help to stay ahead of the game. The right tools for small business owners depend on the industry, but there are some essential tools that every entrepreneur should have in their arsenal.
In this guide, we’ll explore 5 must-have tools for small business owners in 2024.
#1. Google Workspace
Google Workspace (formerly known as G-Suite) can provide your small business with a collection of cloud-based productivity and collaboration tools.
Developed by Google, this business tool provides email hosting, online storage, real-time collaboration, and more. With Google Workspace, you can easily create and edit documents, spreadsheets, presentations, and forms all in one place.
This eliminates the need for multiple software licenses and simplifies communication within your team.
What does Google Workspace include?
- Gmail
- Google Calendar
- Google Drive
- Google Docs
- Google Sheets
- Google Slides
- Google Meet
- and many more
With cloud-based storage, your team can access and work on files from anywhere, making it easier to collaborate remotely. It also offers advanced security features to keep your data safe. In 2024, when remote work is the norm, having Google Workspace will be essential for small businesses.
#2. Trello
Trello is a web-based application that offers you a customisable platform to create lists, boards, and cards. It is a business tool that allows you to organise tasks, projects, and team assignments in a collaborative way.
With Trello, you can create boards for different projects and assign tasks to team members. You can also add due dates, checklists, attachments, and labels to each task. The visual interface makes it easy to see the progress of a project at a glance.
Trello offers a free version with basic features and a paid version with additional features such as unlimited attachments, priority support, and advanced automation. It also integrates with other business tools like Google Workspace, Slack, and Microsoft Teams.
With its user-friendly interface and flexibility, Trello is a popular choice for small businesses looking to streamline their project management processes.
#3. Canva
Canva is an online graphic design tool perfect for small business owners who design their own marketing materials. It offers a drag-and-drop interface with thousands of pre-designed templates and elements, making it easy to create professional-looking graphics without any design experience.
With Canva, you can create social media posts, flyers, posters, presentations, and more. It also has a library of free stock images and fonts to choose from, or you can upload your own.
The paid version of Canva offers additional features such as team collaboration, branding options, and access to premium images and templates.
High-quality marketing materials are essential if you want to compete in today’s digital landscape, and Canva makes it easy.
#4. WordPress
Every business, small or large, needs a website. Without a strong online presence, it’s challenging to reach potential customers.
WordPress is a popular content management system (CMS) that allows you to create and manage your website without any coding knowledge. It offers thousands of free and paid themes and plugins to customise your site’s design and functionality.
Its user-friendly interface allows you to easily add and edit pages, blog posts, images, and more. It also has built-in SEO tools to help your website rank higher in search engine results.
For small businesses looking for a cost-effective way to create a professional website, WordPress is an excellent option.
#5. Leadtrekker
Leadtrekker is a CRM and lead management software.
Lead management is crucial for small businesses, especially those in sales. It helps you organise and track your leads, ensuring that no potential customer falls through the cracks.
Leadtrekker offers features such as:
- Centralised information to organise customer information
- Automated lead assignment and auto-responses
- Optimised sales management
- Widely compatible with external platforms and processes
- Lead response time
- Marketing ROI tracking
- Lead capturing through various channels
- This software helps you streamline your lead management process, saving you time and increasing your chances of converting leads into customers.
With Leadtrekker’s reporting and analytics tools, you can also track the success of your marketing efforts and make informed decisions about future campaigns.
With a fixed monthly fee of only R220, Leadtrekker offers an affordable solution for small businesses.
Get These Must-Have Tools For Small Business Success
Building and managing a successful small business can be challenging, but these tools can make it more manageable. From project management to website creation and lead management, they offer essential features to help your business grow.
