These are our favorite tools for building and growing a home based business that we use and love. Check back often for updates!
Tools to Connect with Online Buyers
To connect your home based business with users of internet and potential customers, you’ll want to build up the following resources:
- A domain name
- A strong website
- An active email list
- Active social media accounts
We offer a lot advice on our website about what content is appropriate for each resource; here are the tools you’ll need to establish these resources.
Domain Name
A domain is the name of your business website. The domain for this website is (www.padbizz.com). Domain names are sold by domain registrars. If you don’t have a domain name for your business, get a free domain name from one of our favorite domain registrars, Bluehost. Bluehost gives one free domain name to all new customers.
Before you register a domain name make sure you read our post, how to choose a domain name for a home based business.
Website
A strong website is key for helping you to grow your home based business.
Website Hosting
When you own your own domain (like padbizz.com), you need a site host to store the files.
- Bluehost website hosting: Bluehost is affordable and has fantastic customer service
WordPress Websites
WordPress is the #1 website publishing platform. There are lots of free and paid templates available, and you have endless freedom to tweak your website recipe.
Email Mailing List Tools
Email lists are a great tool for letting your favorite customers know about exciting new developments in your business.
Providers
- AWeber: A broadcast email service provider.
- MailChimp: Another favorite broadcast email service provider
- OptinSkin: This tool helps you easily embed email opt-in forms onto your website.
Social Media Tools
Social media tools offer a free tool to connect with customers and reach out to potential customers
Popular social media tools
- Google plus
- You tube
Tools to Help Run Your Business
Staying on top of a small business is hard—especially when you have family and lack a personal assistant. These are a few of our favorite tools for staying organized.
Document Management
Keep your inventory lists, schedules, and catering checklists hosted in the cloud—that way you can access them from the road.
File Syncing Tools
- Dropbox: Sync files between all your computers, your mobile devices, and share with colleagues
- Box: A Dropbox alternative
Online Documents
- Google Drive: Create and store documents, including spreadsheets, word processing, and presentations completely online
- Drive Template Gallery: Free templates, including balance sheets, time cards, and inventory lists
Online Payment Services
More and more patrons are moving away from cash. Here are solutions for accepting credit payments.
- Paypal
- Visa
- Mastercard
- American expresss
In addition to these solutions, check with your individual commercial banker to see if your bank offers any solutions.