10 Awesome Tools To Help You Save Time In Your Business

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Just starting your freelance business and looking for ways to save time and boost your productivity? Here are 10 tools I love and recommend if you’re just starting out on your freelance journey!

Each category has 2 tools listed as well to give you a bit of variety. And while both tools might have similar features, they have different interfaces so be sure to check out each to see which one is a good fit for you and your business.

Let’s jump in!

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TOGGL // MY HOURS

Whenever working on a client project, I always run over to toggl.com to track my time. It’s important to understand how long each task takes you, especially when working out your pricing.

In Toggl, you can add in client details, project info and color code everything to make it easier to see exactly how much time you put into each area of your business.

Another tracking option is My Hours. It has a simple, easy to use interface that allows you to track projects, and manage + bill your clients. Both tools have team functions as well if that’s something you need for your business.

Need to track a client call? Use the Toggl or My Hours app!

FRESHBOOKS // QUICKBOOKS SELF EMPLOYED

FreshBooks is an awesome accounting software aimed to help you keep a close eye on all of your finance, and track your income more efficiently.

It allows you to track your time as well, which is pretty cool! On FreshBooks, you can also create and send beautiful invoices to send out to clients and easily follow up with them.

Managing payments and expenses is another perk with FreshBooks. Overall, I think it’s a great option for beginners and pros wanting to stay on top of what’s flowing in and out of their business.

Another popular option is QuickBooks Online. Though it’s more of a bookkeeping software, you can still send invoices to clients and accurately estimate quarterly taxes so you can have a clear view of your finances. They also have a QuickBooks + TurboTax bundle that allows you to easily file your income taxes at the end of the year.

Personally, I think it’s really important to keep track of income + expenses and make sure that you start your business off with the right foundation. So whether you decide to go with FreshBooks, QuickBoooks, or combine the two, I can’t stress enough how crucial keeping tabs of your finances are from the beginning.

It will save you a major headache when tax time comes around, and give you a boost of confidence in your business.

TRELLO // ASANA

I’ve used Trello in the past and think it’s a great way to keep track of daily tasks and goals. I’ve also heard awesome things about Asana from other business owners who wanted something a little different interface wise, but still offering similar features.

Each tool has its plus sides, but just like the other tools mentioned, it’s really up to the individual.

When I first started out, I used Trello to track all client tasks, but recently have started testing out Asana. I love the calendar feature that gives me an overview of different tasks that need to be done, and also the act of ‘checking’ things off when they’re finished. It reminds me a lot more of tracking things with a pen + paper. 🙂

BUFFER // HOOTSUITE

If you’re a virtual assistant or offer social media services, these are both amazing tools to help you save time with your marketing strategy.

Both platforms make it easy to manage your own or your client’s social media accounts for free. Here are just a few differences between the free plans for each:

Buffer

– Allows you to attach 1 account per social media platform
– Social platforms include: Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Google+, Instagram
– Schedule posts at optimized times using the Optimal Timing Tool
– Free browser extension

HootSuite

– Connect 3 social media accounts
– Track growth with analytics feature
– Free courses to learn more about social media strategy
– Lead capture campaigns

Learn more about Buffer and HootSuite to see which one works best for you!

TAILWIND // BOARDBOOSTER

Pinterest is a great place to market yourself. You can link to blog posts showing off your expertise, your hire me page or to a freebie made for your ideal clients.

If you offer Pinterest services or are just looking to grow your freelance business, definitely check out these tools.

RELATED: How To Grow Your Blog Traffic With Tailwind

I’m in love with Tailwind – no shame. It offers scheduling your pins at optimized times, board lists, Tailwind Tribes, analytics, and free tutorials. All things that make growing your Pinterest easier and save a lot of time.

Click here to sign up for a free month of Tailwind!

After the first month, there are 2 paid options you could go with. Unlimited pins for $119 charged annually, or 400 pins per month at $15 charged monthly.

Learn more about Tailwind

What tools are you using to grow your freelance business? Let me know in the comments. 🙂