3 Free Online Tools to Help your Business in 2014

As business heads increasingly online, we should be looking to the internet as a tool to help business productivity and practices this year. There’s an abundance of platforms, systems and tools out there to help any-size business from small to large.

Here are 3 key tools that we think every business should be using in 2014:

Social Media Management Tools

When you’re busy with your business, the last thing you need to be worrying about is if you’ve sent that tweet or how your Facebook is looking. Social media management tools are great for businesses and organisations as they allow you to collaboratively execute campaigns across multiple social platforms from one secure, web-based dashboard.

Platforms such as Hootsuite offer great free systems (although you can opt for a paid for premium service if you want to) that are streamlined, easy to manage and straightforward. You can integrate your key social media networks such as Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and even Google+. Send updates, start campaigns and forget about social stress.

 ...if you want to read the rest and find out about two more great, free and online tools that can help your business this year then head over to Midas Touch to read the full article I wrote for their blog.

Midas Touch is a network for UK entrepreneurs and business owners. Running your own business is likely to be the most challenging thing you do, so it is their aim to help make things a little bit easier. What's more, membership is free!

Have you found any fantastic free online tools that have helped your business be more organised and productive? Share them by commenting below!

Dotty about Business Cards

I can't help but love business cards. They're functional and fun, especially with the range of creative designs and styles available. I love handing them out while networking! 

Not only are they easy to use and great for developing and maintaining an important contact base but they can be effective in creating a lasting impression if done well. Think of your business card as an extension of the 'professional you' which, if given to the right person, could land you with an exciting opportunity! 

After being pleased with the quality of the Moo.com cards produced for Sundae Promotions, I decided to turn my hand to making some for myself following my graduation from university and transition into the world of job hunting. 

My key tips for effective business cards are:

1. Easy to read - This includes font and colours but also the content of the card. You don't want to bombard your contact with information. Make it short, snappy and straight to the point. You want the reader to know who you are and what you're about in a glance. 
2. Know your field - Design your card to suit or stand out in the career field you are heading into. Perhaps have a look at other examples online or at networking events to get a feel for the style. You want the design to represent you and your skills at a glance.  
3. Attractive design and colours - Of course this depends on what style suits your career field. However, I think having an attractive or eye-catching card is just as important as the content. For example, with my business cards, I am hoping the bright colours will draw the attention of the contact. Remember they may have a pile of business cards but if yours stands out then you're in with a better chance of being remembered. 
4. Vital information - Name, skills, telephone number, email and (if you have one) website. Remember that a business card isn't just there to look pretty. You want this little treasure to develop contacts and provide opportunities. So, the reader needs to know who you are and what you do but your contact details are just as important. Make sure they're all up-to-date and correct before you hit 'Order'. 

Here's my finished product...

If you're going to the effort of designing an attractive and well thought-out business card then make sure you give them the storage they deserve! A flashy little tin card holder keeps your cards crumple-free and safe. You don't have to go rummaging in your bag or purse... they'll be easy to find and easy to give out to those important people. 

What are you waiting for... start creating and networking! 

Getting Professional!

Say hello to Sundae Promotions' fancy, new business cards! 

They're looking great thanks to Sundae Promotions' Visual Communications Manager, Amy McArthur. We're hoping to get these handed out and start networking and making contact with Birmingham's creative communities and businesses.

What do you think? We love them! 

If you're interested in getting some printed for yourself then check out Moo for great offers and service.