What’s the latest gadget you can’t live without for your life or business?
These answers are provided by Young Entrepreneur Council (YEC), an invite-only organization comprised of the world’s most promising young entrepreneurs. YEC has also launched BusinessCollective, a free virtual mentorship program that helps millions of entrepreneurs start and grow businesses.
1. My Mobile Device
My mobile device is more than just a phone. Thanks to cloud-based services, much of your business can be conducted online. Important negotiations and transactions can be done through my mobile device. There are many business opportunities waiting, and my mobile device allows me the ease and convenience to make things happen!- Patrick Barnhill, Specialist ID, Inc.
2. Self-Encrypting Drive
My self-encrypting drive is very important. Laptop thefts account for almost 70 percent of worldwide data breaches. Having a self-encrypting drive helps me feel confident that my business and personal information is being kept safe and secure.- Nicole Munoz, Start Ranking Now
3. Phone Charging Case
It may be a bit more cumbersome than the phone itself, but the wireless charging vehicle dock has saved me on multiple occasions.With my phone battery not lasting through the day, I now don’t have to worry about carrying an external charger around with me.- Abhilash Patel, Abhilash.co
4. External Hard Drive
This device is not only great for making a smaller laptop suddenly bigger, it’s wonderful for backing up crucial information. As an entrepreneur, you‘re going to have a lot of important (and sensitive) documents on your computer. Why would you not make sure those are safe, even if your laptop is ruined?- Ginger Jones, Jones Therapy Services
5. Apple AirPods
I can‘t live without my Apple AirPods. I’m on the phone frequently and the AirPods are incredibly user-friendly. They’re small, can recharge in your pocket and operate seamlessly. For those worried about them falling out of your ear, it’s best to get comfortable with them in a contained environment, like your apartment, first before going out with them.- Douglas Baldasare, ChargeItSpot
6. Apple Watch
I just purchased an Apple Watch and it’s the best gadget for both business and life. For professional use, I like to use the watch for Slack and email, as well as to set reminders for calls, meetings, and work deadlines. For personal use, I use it to track my runs, monitor my heartbeat, and log all of my workouts.- Kristin Marquet, Creative Development Agency, LLC
7. Google Home Mini
Like all new technological advancements, not everyone is going to embrace it, especially when it comes to artificial intelligence. The fact of the matter is, the Google Home Mini is convenient, provided that you have a Google account — which most people do. This nifty little device cuts my everyday tasks down to a minimum, saving me time that I can spend elsewhere. – Codie Sanchez, CodieSanchez.com
8. Skybell Wi-Fi Doorbell
Since I work from home often or am traveling a lot, I’ve become dependent on my Skybell Wi-Fi doorbell to feel safer about my home. I can see who is at the door even when I’m not at home and I can interact with them. It gives me more peace of mind since I am so often away.- Angela Ruth, Calendar
9. Nespresso Machine
Maybe a Nespresso Machine is a weird gadget but they are life-changing. When you need a pick-me-up or a good cup of espresso, it is so nice to have a mini espresso bar in your office.- Brandon Stapper, Crown Growth
10. Any Smart Home Device
I love having appliances that talk to each other and are linked together to help cover things like items I need to buy or take care of the home security and use of utilities. It saves me time and has taught me so much about living more environmentally responsible.- Cynthia Johnson, Bell + Ivy
11. Bluesmart Luggage
I travel often, so this has been a huge upgrade. This suitcase has GPS, so I won’t lose my luggage, and it has a built-in battery, so I can charge my devices while I go. For a traveler, this is a must. – Ben Landis, Fanbase
12. Noise-Canceling Headphones
Because of a lot of air travel and working in a variety of different contexts, from the office to airports to co-working spaces, noise-canceling headphones have become something that I love and can‘t imagine living without. In fact, I wish I got them sooner. I put off buying them and really wish I hadn’t now. – Eric Mathews, Start Co.
