If you are reliant on outdated modes of working and archaic technologies, you are going to damage your business. We are living in the 21st Century, and the business world has moved on. While not all developments will stick, there are still those that will better your business, thus improving your life, as well as your customers and employees.
You need to consider the following.
Have a social media presence
You don’t need to use every social media network at your disposal, but at least choose something that is going to help you with your business needs. Facebook will help you stay in touch with your customers and give you a platform to market your product. YouTube is a fantastic platform for video marketing. And LinkedIn is a great way to connect with other business leaders. Research the social media sites available to you, and use those that will benefit your business.
Use your smartphone more
One of the greatest inventions of the 21st Century, your humble smartphone can do so much more than take pictures and let you browse the internet. From marketing to managing your team, read our previous article on how you can utilize your smartphone in your business.
Get your head in the cloud
Cloud computing has revolutionized the way we do business. A cloud-based phone system offers more functionality than traditional landline systems. Cloud storage is safer than using USB sticks or computer hard drives as a way to back up your important data. And because you can use the cloud on any smart device, you don’t need to be in the office to collaborate with your team, thanks to web-based applications such as Google Docs.
Implement cashless payments
Not many companies rely on cash handling when taking payments anymore. There are more convenient ways, for business owners and customers alike, with options including PayPal, Google Wallet, Apple Pay, and card machines. With more accessible ways to take payments, you are more likely to clinch those sales and make those all-important profits.
Consider flexible working
Forget the long commute to work each day. Thanks to modern technology, it’s possible for businesses to operate from home-based environments. Not only will this make your life easier – you don’t have to crawl out of bed at some unreasonable hour of the day – but you are improving the lives of your staff too. You will all save money on travel costs, and you will reduce the expense of your office overheads to boot!
Improve your website
Assuming you already have a website of course (get with it granddad), you still need to add all the bells and whistles that will make your customer’s lives easier, and increase your chances of making a sale. If your website doesn’t include these web design trends, then it’s time to give it a makeover.
So, what about your business? If you are still reliant on your fax machine and traditional marketing methods to run your business, then you are doing yourself (and your customers and staff) a disservice. Get into the modern world by following some (or all) of the practices mentioned in this article.
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