Last week, I went to a conference for military spouses who are entrepreneurs. It was so inspiring to see those who man the domestic home front also launching startups, and using technology to make a career for themselves. Laptops and phones were in full effect as attendees used them to take notes, and essentially run their businesses while networking.
As an entrepreneur, my computer, phone and tablets are the lifeline of my business. While some people head to the office every day, my office is virtual. I am still amazed that I can literally run my entire business from my phone or computer without ever touching a real file cabinet or stepping foot near a copy machine. There are so many awesome resources for running your business online and also keeping your virtual team in the loop.
Documents
Instead of trying to figure out what word processing program others have, simply use Google Drive. Drive allows you to create documents from anywhere and then download them in any format. It also allows you and your team to edit documents at the same time so that you can work on projects together. Additionally, I consider it to be my virtual filing cabinet. All of my files are in there and I don’t have to worry about the hassle of a thumb drive. I can access my files from any computer or phone at any time.
Scanning and Fax Apps
If you’re glued to your phone, then be sure to check out your app store to look for scanning and fax apps. You simply can snap a picture of a document and then easily fax it through. If you need to scan something, simply snap a photo and then email or even upload to a social platform if need be. The convenience is that this can be done on the go. You can also receive faxes and scans right to your phone from other people.
Electronic Signatures
How many times has a client asked you to sign something and you have had to wait either to receive it by postal mail, or via email, and then print or scan it back? There are now electronic signature programs and apps that make the process so much easier. I personally love HelloSign. I can prefill documents for clients to sign and also receive documents via email, open a document up, sign my signature with my finger and then send right back in a matter of seconds. Part of running a successful business is reducing the amount of time it takes to complete small tasks and this is one of those ways.
Keeping Everyone in the Loop
Teamwork makes the dream work, right? So keeping everyone in the loop is essential to a well-oiled entrepreneurial machine. There are awesome programs like Basecamp and Slack, which allow you to dole out tasks while keep everything organized and in one place. You can even use these programs like a virtual office to talk, take notes and store files.
Your Computer
And of course at the end of the day, you’re not an entrepreneur without a computer …right? Sure, you can do lots of things from your phones and tablets, but nothing beats creating documents and designing projects on a bigger screen. As a budding entrepreneur, it’s important to choose a great computer that meets all your needs but also fits your budget.
Dell Military Member Purchase Program
Dell is helping with that through their Dell Member Purchase Program, which offers up to 30% off Dell electronics and accessories, and an additional 10% off exclusively for Military and their families. This includes global APO/FPO shipping.
Windows 10 delivers the ultimate Windows experience and Dell devices were MADE to bring out the best of this operating system. And with lots of inventory, Dell has something for everyone – like the New Inspiron 15 7000 Series 2-in-1 PC!
If you’re ready to start building your at-home virtual office, head on over to Dell.com/Mil to get started!
This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of MSB New Media & Military.com on behalf of Dell. The opinions and text are all mine.
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Krystel is the mom of two and an Army Wife. In addition to Army Wife 101 she is the Co-Founder of SoFluential.com a digital media agency that connects brands with the military market.
She has appeared on MSNBC ,FOX LA and formerly was a weekly contributor to HLN's "Raising America". She has written for various outlets including Sheknows and Lifetime and is a big fan of cupcakes and french fries.