Running a small business can be challenging, but having the right software can make all the difference. With so many options available, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of 30 tried-and-true tools that other small businesses swear by. Whether you need accounting and bookkeeping software, online money tools, website builders, communication platforms, project management solutions, content marketing tools, email marketing software, public relations assistance, customer service platforms, recruiting and HR software, or document management systems, we’ve got you covered.
Accounting and Bookkeeping
1. QuickBooks
Intuit QuickBooks is a robust and affordable accounting tool that is highly popular among small businesses. It allows you to connect your business bank account, import transactions, automate classification, send invoices, and collect payments easily. With QuickBooks, you can also tag transactions to analyze the profitability of different parts of your business.
2. Xero
Xero is a comprehensive accounting software that simplifies financial management for small businesses. It offers features such as invoicing, expense tracking, project management, and bank account reconciliation. Xero is particularly beneficial for those who want to automate accounting processes and gain better control over their finances.
3. Bonsai
Bonsai is an all-in-one suite designed specifically for freelancers. It streamlines the freelancer workflow by incorporating proposal creation, contract signing, billing, and payment collection. Though primarily made for US-based freelancers, Bonsai offers pre-made contracts suitable for different types of freelancers.
Online Money Tools
4. Stripe
Stripe is a popular payment collection platform that integrates seamlessly with various programs, including WooCommerce. It allows you to sell goods and services online and collect payments effortlessly. With no monthly or annual fees, Stripe charges a competitive rate of 2.9% plus $0.30 per transaction.
5. Wise
Formerly known as TransferWise, Wise is an online bank that enables customers to open virtual bank accounts in different currencies. This feature helps businesses collect direct payments in various currencies without losing money in international transactions. It’s an excellent tool for those who frequently work with overseas companies.
6. Square
Square is a cost-effective offline payment collection tool, perfect for businesses that require in-person transactions. Their card readers are reasonably priced, and transactions can be completed using a mobile device. Square simplifies the payment collection process by allowing customers to swipe or tap their credit cards on the spot.
Website Builders
7. WordPress
WordPress is a versatile website builder suitable for most small businesses. It offers extensive customization options and is free to use. With WordPress, you can create any type of website, from a simple blog to a full-fledged online store. Its vast plugin marketplace expands its functionality, enabling social media sharing, SEO optimization, and more.
8. Squarespace
Squarespace is known for its sleek and modern website designs, making it an excellent choice for small businesses that prioritize aesthetics. Although it offers fewer customization options than WordPress, Squarespace’s user-friendly click-and-drag interface allows users to create visually appealing websites quickly.
9. Wix
Wix strikes a balance between WordPress and Squarespace. It offers a drag-and-drop website builder at a lower price than Squarespace. Wix provides more customization options and has an add-on market similar to WordPress plugins. However, transferring your site to another platform or template can be challenging with Wix.
Communication
10. Slack
Slack is a powerful chatroom for businesses, ideal for teams looking to streamline communication and reduce dependence on email. With Slack, you can create specific channels and projects, facilitating organized discussions. Features include direct messaging, voice and video calls, and integration with other apps.
11. Skype
Skype is a popular video calling software that allows free audio and video chats. It also offers the option to add funds to make calls to landlines and set up a business phone number. Skype’s screen sharing feature facilitates collaboration, and its text messaging feature is ideal for quick communication.
12. Zoom
Zoom gained prominence during the pandemic and has become a reliable video conferencing software. It offers free service for meetings with limited participants and affordable licensing options for larger groups. Zoom is suitable for entrepreneurs seeking virtual face-to-face interactions with remote teams or clients.
Project Management
13. Trello
Trello is a popular project management tool that utilizes Kanban-style boards. It allows users to move cards along lists to track project progress. With features like tagging, color-coding, and the ability to add links and images, Trello simplifies project organization. It offers a free plan, with additional capabilities available through paid plans.
14. Asana
Asana excels in list-making project management. Projects start as lists and can be viewed in various formats, such as calendars or timelines. Asana integrates seamlessly with other programs like Slack and Google Drive, making it efficient and versatile. While a basic plan is available for free, advanced features require a paid subscription.
15. ClickUp
ClickUp combines the best features of popular project management tools, such as Trello and Asana, into one platform. It offers flexibility, allowing users to set up different views for different projects, automate administrative tasks, and integrate various dashboards. ClickUp’s extensive functionality can be overwhelming, but ample training materials are available.
Content Marketing
16. Canva
Canva is a widely used marketing tool that empowers small businesses to create eye-catching graphics and documents. It provides access to free templates, stock images, and graphics, enabling users to design visually appealing content quickly. Canva Pro offers additional customization options for a monthly fee.
17. Buffer
Buffer is a social media scheduling tool that helps small businesses manage their social media presence efficiently. It offers a free plan and supports multiple platforms. With Buffer, you can schedule and analyze social media content, saving time and improving engagement. More advanced features are available through paid plans.
18. CoSchedule
CoSchedule’s Marketing Calendar is a comprehensive marketing tool designed to simplify small business marketing. It allows users to manage social media, WordPress blogs, and email activities from a single calendar. CoSchedule streamlines the marketing process, helping businesses enhance their online presence and engage their audience.
19. SE Ranking
SE Ranking is an affordable SEO software that helps businesses improve their website’s visibility on search engines. It provides keyword research and tracking tools, allowing users to optimize their content for organic traffic. SE Ranking’s pricing plans cater to businesses of all sizes, making it accessible for small businesses.
Email Marketing
20. MailerLite
MailerLite is an email marketing software designed for small businesses. Their free plan allows you to build your email list and create professional email campaigns. With features like drag-and-drop email templates, automation, and analytics, MailerLite helps businesses establish and maintain effective email marketing strategies.
21. Flodesk
Flodesk offers elegant and user-friendly email marketing software for small businesses. Their paid solution focuses on top-tier design, enabling users to create beautiful and engaging emails easily. With Flodesk, businesses can send unlimited emails per month, set up automations, create forms, and deliver digital products at a flat rate price.
Public Relations
22. Help a Reporter Out (HARO)
HARO connects journalists with experts, providing opportunities for small businesses to gain valuable media exposure. It allows users to tailor the news topics they receive, ensuring relevance to their area of expertise. HARO is a free resource that facilitates direct contact between reporters and potential sources.
23. Mention.com
Mention.com helps businesses monitor online conversations about their brand. It scans over a billion sources to identify relevant conversations, enabling businesses to engage with their audience effectively. Mention.com allows users to publish and interact, fostering brand recognition and customer engagement.
Customer Service
24. Zendesk
Zendesk is a comprehensive customer service platform used by businesses of all sizes. It offers features that facilitate customer interaction, including live chat, ticketing systems, and integration with various communication channels. Zendesk helps businesses provide exceptional customer support and streamline their customer service operations.
25. Salesforce
Salesforce is a renowned customer relationship management (CRM) software. It helps businesses manage sales, marketing, and customer service operations effectively. Salesforce enables personalized and timely communication with prospects and customers, maximizing sales opportunities and improving overall customer satisfaction.
Recruiting & HR
26. Workable
Workable is an all-in-one recruiting solution that simplifies the hiring process for small businesses. It offers a comprehensive set of tools to create job postings, source candidates, manage applications, and complete the hiring process efficiently. Though priced higher, Workable provides a high-powered solution for finding the right talent.
27. Humi
Humi is an HR platform designed for small businesses. It offers end-to-end solutions, including recruitment, onboarding, performance management, payroll, and reporting. Humi’s tailored features make it an ideal choice for companies with 25 to 500 employees, providing comprehensive employee management in a single platform.
Document Management
28. Google Drive
Google Drive is a widely used document management system that offers free cloud storage with a Gmail account. It provides access to various Google productivity tools, such as Docs, Sheets, and Slides. Google Drive simplifies collaboration and file sharing, making it an essential tool for small businesses.
29. Microsoft 365
Microsoft 365 offers online document management similar to Google Drive but with a focus on Microsoft Office tools. It comes with 1 TB of cloud storage and provides web versions of popular Microsoft Suite applications. Microsoft 365’s plans cater to different business needs and preferences.
30. WeTransfer
WeTransfer is a file-sharing tool trusted by creative professionals. It allows you to securely share files of up to 2GB for free. WeTransfer’s simplicity and user-friendly interface make it an excellent choice for one-time transfers or delivering large files to clients. Its Pro version offers additional features like password-protected transfers.
Finding the right software for your small business can take some trial and error, but the perfect solution is out there. Explore these software options, discover what works best for your business, and take your small business to new heights. Register your business with Ownr and embark on your next adventure with confidence. Happy software hunting!