5 Ways you can use Technology in FY2020

Here are five simple ways you can embrace technology to boost your start of financial year:  

Sharpen your inbox management  

It’s a quick win but one that’s often overlooked – develop an inbox management system that can help keep you one step ahead on your emails. This includes: 

• Having an organised folder system for rapid filing and retrieval   
• Setting up an auto response that sets expectations on when you’ll respond by (and stops you being chased) 
• Putting a professional email signature as a default on every email you send – ideally featuring your business logo and full contact details 
• Establishing group contact lists so you can quickly reach key groups (such as your employees) without having to remember multiple email addresses 

Use online accounting software

Online accounting software can be a game changing use of technology. Software that’s especially designed for small businesses can do all kinds of things to save time and effort and take your professionalism to the next level. For example creating invoices and invoice reminders, paying employees, and tracking expenses and payments received. 

Tips:  

• Choose a software that is automatically updated in line with tax changes – so you keep on top of your tax affairs with minimal effort. 
• Look out for software providers that offer introductory offers and even free trials – so you can try before you buy. 

Online accounting software can be a game changing use of technology. Software that’s especially designed for small businesses can do all kinds of things to save time and effort and take your professionalism to the next level. For example creating invoices and invoice reminders, paying employees, and tracking expenses and payments received. 

Tips: 

• Choose a software that is automatically updated in line with tax changes – so you keep on top of your tax affairs with minimal effort. 
• Look out for software providers that offer introductory offers and even free trials – so you can try before you buy. 

Promote your business on social media

We always encourage small businesses to have a strong social media presence – it’s a simple tool to that can boost awareness and sales. One really quick way to do this is by setting up a Facebook and Instagram account and then regularly posting useful content and updates. Prospective customers may often look at Facebook and Instagram daily (sometimes more) so when your business is clearly visible on social media, with an unmissable prompt to contact you, you’re one step closer to converting a lead. 

Create video content

One of the best ways you can engage prospective customers is through video content. That’s because when it comes to promoting your business there’s only so much you can say through a local newspaper ad or a throw-away flyer. With video you can communicate not only what your business offers and how you help your customers but also you can convey what makes your business tick and what differentiates you from others. Throw in customer testimonials and a clear call to action and you could have a winning video formula. Just be sure to find a videography professional – the quality of your video content will speak volumes about your business so it could pay to appoint an expert. 

Learn from podcasts

There are millions of successful small business owners across the globe – and with podcasts you can learn from their experience. This includes picking up new skills and strategies and being inspired – across areas including marketing, leadership and entrepreneurialism. The best thing is most podcasts are free and plentiful and available at the touch of your fingertips on your smartphone. This also means you can listen to podcasts on the go and even whilst doing the chores or travelling.