Software and Software Developers for Business Protection

You can be on top of all aspects of business operations, but if you’re not taking measures to protect your business, you may be at risk.

• Cybersecurity tech. According to Savvy Security, you can prevent malware attacks and cyber security breaches by ensuring your business is set up against all kinds of risks.
• Project management tools. Trello and Zoho help users by keeping responsibilities, tasks, and events in one place. This can help prevent silly mistakes that may cost the business long-term.
• Payment tools. Platforms like Stripe and PayPal help process payments while offering user protection and security.
• Outsource software developers. Many businesses utilize job sites to hire freelance cybersecurity specialists tasked with developer resources. So, if you are tasked with developer resources, start by reviewing software developers online, then select a few for interviews to gauge their level of expertise.

Tools to Support Your Backend

An optimized and efficient backend also means a well-oiled business machine. Here are the best backend tools to invest in.

• HR management. HR management tools like GoCo offer payroll advantages, shift scheduling, and more for employee management.
• Accounting software. Software like QuickBooks Online is favored by small businesses as it tracks expenses, income, claims, and invoicing.
• Communication and collaboration. Microsoft Office 365 is an excellent option for file sharing, instant chatting, and calendar organizing.

Tech for Marketing Your Business

Also, marketing your business is critical for increasing brand exposure and boosting sales. Here are some tech resources to help with marketing.

• Logo designer. A cohesive logo can help increase brand recall and identification. Likewise, use a free custom logo design and download tool to create a logo easily.
• Email marketing. A provider like MailChimp helps keep your email subscribers up to date on special offers, promos, and business happenings.
• CRM software. Additionally, customer relationship management tools like HubSpot improve engagement and employee relationships.

So, are you ready to start crushing your business goals? If so, these tech tools will help! Start leveraging the power of tech to boost productivity, operations, and of course, revenue for business success today!

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Prioritize Safety 

Data is an integral element of your business’ success as it can help you predict market trends, learn about customers’ purchase behaviors, identify competitor weaknesses, and much more. But, if your data falls into the hands of bad actors, it can cause significant damage to your finances and reputation. 

Here are some tried and tested methods to keep your data safe:

• Install antivirus and malware protection software on all machines used for business. This can include mobile phones, tablets, laptops, desktops, etc.
• Integrate 2FA (two-factor authentication) for all business-related accounts.
• Create strong passwords which include a combination of numbers, special characters, and a mix of upper and lower case letters.
• Back-up data to a secure server periodically. If your data is stolen, a backup will allow you to recover faster and prevent financial difficulties.

Additionally, remain vigilant while surfing the internet on work gadgets, as 35% of security breaches include an element of social engineering. For instance, a hacker may impersonate themselves as a service provider (bank, cell phone company, etc.) and make you click on a phishing link disguised as a payment link for payments. As good practice, always check the sender ID. If in doubt, reach out to your service providers personally regarding the communication. 

Use Digital Tools for All Business Projects

When you’re crunched for space, the last thing you want to deal with is paperwork. Not only is paperwork tedious to manage, but it requires ever-increasing spending on printing and storage. Part of the trick to managing a business from a rental property is by working smarter, not harder. The smarter way to work is to use digital tools for all business projects, such as:

• Venmo: One of the leading payment platforms on the market, Venmo allows you to make and receive payments in an instant. Additionally, all records will be stored digitally on your account and can be accessed at any time.
• DocuSign: Rather than printing and sharing contracts, use apps such as DocuSign to share them via email. Additionally, the app allows you to sign documents digitally and protect them with encryption.
• Buffer: When it comes to managing multiple social media handles, social media management apps like Buffer are a must. Buffer allows you to upload content simultaneously across all channels, create performance reports, and manage user interactions from a central dashboard.
• Accounting Software: Struggling to manage business finances? Accounting software is just what you need. Using this tool, you’ll be able to create financial statements with just a few clicks, providing complete clarity regarding finances and future business decisions.

Designing Your Space

Here are tips for designing and completing your space from furniture to lighting:

• Design the Office for Success: According to the SBA, 50% of all businesses in the United States are run from home, which means that having limited space should not be a barrier to designing a functional home office.
• Keep Furniture to the Minimum: An ergonomic chair, desk, and storage is the bare minimum needed for a workstation. For storage, consider purchasing vertical shelving as it allows you to store more in a small space.
• Buy Some Houseplants: Working from home can be stressful, but research shows that houseplants serve as natural stressbusters, helping individuals maintain a positive mindset throughout the workday. Additionally, they purify the air of toxins and reduce noise disturbance. 
• Install Good Lighting: Working in bad lighting can lead to eye strain, headaches, and irritability at work. For days when you work well into the night, it’s important to have good quality lighting in the office. The best option is to purchase lamps or ceiling lights that use LEDs. 

Completing Your Space

• Invest in High-speed Wi-Fi: A reliable, fast internet connection is a must for home-based businesses. Research the best providers in your area and compare them based on speed, reviews, and pricing. Opt for the provider that best meets your needs regarding bandwidth and price. As a business, you could be eligible for corporate pricing, hence remember to inquire regarding that.
• Check Your Lease: As you’ll be running the business from a rented apartment, it’s important to confirm that you’re legally allowed to do so. The lease document provided to you by the landlord or the HOA (homeowners association) should include clauses for what type of businesses could be run from the property. Additionally, you’ll need to adhere to any requirements included by the owners.

Furthermore, speak with your insurance provider to check whether your renter’s insurance will cover liabilities arising from the business. If you need to purchase separate business insurance, it’s best to do it at the earliest. Do not launch the business before completing these formalities to avoid any future inconveniences.

Apply for Required Licenses 

Depending on the industry and type of goods sold, you may need to apply for licenses or permits. On average, licenses and permits take a couple of weeks to obtain. You need to gather paperwork, submit applications, make payments, etc. Hence, make this a priority and start the process as soon as possible.

Take Advantage of Tax Deductions

Home-based business owners are eligible to claim business-related expenses as tax deductions, which can include:

• Cost of equipment such as laptops, office supplies, etc.
• Expenses related to homeowner’s insurance, HOA fees, mortgage interest payments, and more.
• Cost of repairs made to the space used for business activities.

While you can claim these expenses as a sole proprietor, register the business as an LLC or an S Corp. They protect personal assets and finances from business-related liabilities. Establishing a business registers it as a separate legal entity, unlike in a sole proprietorship, where the business and owner are considered the same entity.

Plan for a Larger Space

If you think your current space will become insufficient in the near future, look at larger apartments to move into. Look for areas where the cost of living is lower. This allows you to rent a larger space for less and bring down business expenses as well.

Along with a workspace, look for a home that includes space for personal activities as well such as an extra room that can be converted into a gym or entertainment space. Use an apartment search tool to browse properties in different neighborhoods and visit the apartment before making a final decision.

Creating the perfect home office in a limited space will require leveraging the power of technology, purchasing minimal furniture, and investing in a fast, reliable internet connection. Additionally, prior to signing, get a confirmation in writing from the landlord or the HOA granting you the right to manage a business from the rental property. When it comes time to expand the business, look for a larger property in a better neighborhood that strikes a balance between your personal and professional needs.

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What Kind of Business Do You Want to Start?

You love sports, you might even say it’s your passion, and you want to turn that passion into your own sports-related business. You’ll be happy to learn that is, in fact, a great idea because there are so many avenues you can pursue that there’s almost certainly one that you’d love and be great at. 

Here are just four examples:

• Are you already a skilled photographer? Sports photography is a business you can operate from home with a moderate investment in equipment. As your business grows, expect to do a lot of traveling to capture your team as they compete. 
• If you live in an area where little league teams are plentiful, think about a batting cage business. The cost of construction ranges from $64,000 to $170,000.
• All indoor and outdoor sports venues need to be properly lit. So you might wish to become a sports venue lighting engineer. A great way to start learning about this trade is to review industry case studies. Getting a clearer picture of what it takes to light up large to mid-size outdoor complexes as well as indoor arenas with these powerful lights.
• An eCommerce sportswear, sports memorabilia, or sporting goods business allows you to run your company from home. Additionally, it saves you the overhead expenses of a brick-and-mortar store. You might even find great finds at estate sales for some one-of-a-kind items. 

Jump into the Game

Your first step is to make a list. Note your strengths, knowledge of the sport, experience in both that sport and in business, and your ability to finance your new company.  

The next step would then be to create a business plan. A business plan helps you in the process of starting a business. It will contain the goal, vision, and mission of your company. It also includes financial projections and a timeline for achieving these goals. You can find templates online to use that can walk you through the process and ensure you’re not leaving out any important steps.

Marketing

The first step to marketing your small business is to create a brand. A brand is an impression that you want your customers to have of you. You need to identify what makes you different from other businesses. This way you will know what people want to buy from you. This idea can be applied in all aspects of small business marketing, including social media, advertising, and even product design.

The next step in marketing your small business is to create an online presence. You can start with social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter. It’s possible to create your own Facebook ads with online tools, including the ability to create your own Facebook banner that helps you stand out.

You need a website for your business where people can learn more about you and how they can contact you. It’s a good idea to hire a professional to create and manage that for you since it will be critical to your business’s success. You can find plenty of freelancers online and see their portfolios and prices with sites like Upwork and Fiverr. 

SmallBizTechnology educates business owners and entrepreneurs with information on how to strategically use technology (and more!) as a tool to start and grow their businesses. Reach out and let them get your business growing.

Involve Yourself Through Fundraising

Sports programs cost money. Between the costs of traveling to games, uniforms, and equipment, it can get pretty expensive. You can get involved and give back to your sports community by helping to fundraise for them. 

Whether you sponsor or team or organize a car wash, there are plenty of ways for you to help raise money. Decide if you want to open a batting cage, sell sports memorabilia, provide stadium lighting to fields, or wherever your passion is. Then make a business plan, market on social media, and get involved in your town’s fundraising efforts. 

It shouldn’t be long before your own sports-related business is in place and growing!

So get out there and play ball!

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Get Your Business Started

There are a lot of decisions to make when starting a home-based business. To make the process more manageable, break it down into a series of steps:

1. Choose your idea.
2. Write a business plan.
3. Pick your name and business entity.
4. You may want to register as a DBA.
5. Obtain a business license.
6. Get funding.
7. Set up your office.
8. Take care of your taxes.

It is important to keep your business and personal finances separate. When choosing your business entity, you may want to consider forming an LLC. Registering as an LLC provides you with tax flexibility, protection for your personal assets, and other benefits. 

It’s also best to set up a business bank account and create invoices that you know will directly correlate with that account. It’s easy to create a customized invoice using an online invoice generator. Many provide free templates that you can download and edit. Keep things professional, but make the invoice align with your business type and marketing products to create consistency.

Prepare Your Space

Not every home is an ideal environment for a home-based business. The Zebra notes you need to have enough space to set up your office, storage, and work areas, and if customers will visit your business, you also should have an area to greet them. You’ll also need fast and reliable internet and top-quality equipment like an ergonomic chair, a dependable laptop, and a comfortable desk, preferably one that is adjustable. 

If your current home doesn’t meet your needs, consider purchasing one that better suits your aspirations. But before you put your home on the market, you’ll probably need to make some upgrades and repairs. Buyers expect functional appliances in their new home. So, if you have been putting up with a finicky dishwasher or a stove with only two working burners, now will be the time to get them fixed. Look online for appliance repair shops near you and search for one that handles the types of appliances you need fixing. It’s important to read enough reviews to ensure they are a legitimate and trustworthy company. Remember, sometimes businesses hire people to write positive reviews, so read several before calling to arrange an appraisal. 

Determine How Much Home You Can Afford

Before you start the hunting process and applying for mortgages, determine how much you can afford to spend on a new home. According to financial experts, there are three rules to keep in mind when determining your budget:

• Monthly mortgage payment should be no more than 28% of your gross monthly income.
• Your total debt payments should not be greater than 36% of your gross monthly income.

With these rules in mind, you can estimate your budget. An easy way to do this is to use a mortgage calculator to determine your estimated monthly payment at different purchase prices and interest rates.

Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

Once you have determined your budget, it is time to get pre-approved for financing. With a pre-approval in hand, it assures sellers you are serious and ready to buy. This gives you an advantage if a lot of competition exists for the property you want. It can also make the purchase process faster and easier because you do not have to worry about making an offer only to get turned down for a loan and having to start all over.

Find a Real Estate Agent

While it may be possible to find and purchase a home on your own, working with trustworthy real estate experts will make the process much easier. A good place to start your search is by asking friends and family if they have any recommendations. Other resources to consider include local real estate associations, for-sale signs in the area you are looking to buy in, and local publications. When selecting a real estate agent, consider experience, customer satisfaction, and availability. Your real estate agent can do a lot of the legwork for you when it comes to searching for a home.

Starting with the right space can help get your home-based business off to a good start. Partnering with the right professionals can help demystify the process. Plus it takes the stress out of finding the right home for your family and your business. 

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1. Choose Technology With Superior Customer Support

According to research, an unexpected IT outage can cost your business $5,600 per minute. When something goes wrong, it is vital that you can reach customer support quickly and get your problem resolved as soon as possible. Before investing in technology, find out what support is offered. Check the hours support is available. Find out how many ways you can contact support and what the expected wait and resolution time is. Do a test call to make sure someone answers your request during the timeframe the company promises.

2. Secure Technology Investments

Data breaches can cost you money, put your network out of commission, and ruin your reputation. Before you purchase any technology, research any security flaws it has. Consider using password-protected PDFs to protect your sensitive files. Invest in a PDF editor so that you can easily make changes to your PDF documents and drawings without having to convert them to another format. All you need to do is upload your file, make changes and then download the edited file and share it.

3. Read the Reviews

Technology companies make a lot of claims about their products, but not all of those products live up to the claims. One way to find out which products perform as advertised is to read reviews from professional reviewers and users. Don’t just look for good or bad reviews. Look for what people say they liked or did not like about a particular product.

4. Move to the Cloud

The price of cloud computing has dropped significantly in recent years. Moving your business to the cloud makes it easier for your employees to collaborate, particularly if they do not all work out of the same location. Cloud-based platforms are reliable, scalable, and secure. Outsourcing functions, such as running your email server, can save you time and money that you can invest elsewhere.

5. Switch to Mobile

Mobile devices, such as smartphones, are getting better and faster, and high-speed data is becoming more accessible anywhere in the world. Smartphones and tablets can be used for basic data entry and consuming information at a cost that is significantly less than managing desktops and laptops. Cloud-based apps can be accessed from anywhere that your employees have an internet connection. This combination allows you to build an inexpensive mobile workforce. 

6. Build a Professional Website

If you have been relying on free website creation tools, consider paying a professional developer to enhance the look and function of your site. A professional developer can custom code your site so that it doesn’t look like just another cookie-cutter site. Your developer can also troubleshoot your existing backend code to make it faster and more powerful or design an entirely new e-commerce system so you can stop paying monthly fees to use someone else’s.

 Final Thoughts

The upfront cost of new technology investments may be intimidating. However, when you calculate what you can save in time and money over the long run, technology investments are often a better financial move.

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