When you’re just getting started as a small business or startup in your field, it can be intimidating to know where to begin with integrating technology. The digital era has resulted in an ever-changing technological landscape, and without fully knowing or understanding all the options available, it’s easy to select the wrong options for small business technology. The right technology can provide small businesses with the marketing and operational advantages they need to succeed; however, the wrong solutions can waste precious time and money.
So how can an enterprising small business owner leverage new technology to their advantage? Read on to see how your small business can benefit from the digital age.
Social Media Matters
Just about everyone and their mother is on social media in some capacity these days, at least when it comes to personal accounts. This proliferation and frequent usage by the general public makes it the perfect tool for marketing your small business and staying connected with potential customers. An estimated 1 billion people use Instagram every month, and by making a business account for this platform, you’ll be able to share engaging visuals with your demographic. Similarly, Facebook, Twitter, and many other social media platforms offer business accounts that allow business owners to engage with their audience in a meaningful manner, helping you attract more business for an incredibly reasonable price.
Get In Touch With Google
When you have information that you want to find out, chances are you head straight to Google or a similar search engine. You’re certainly not alone in this behavior — up to 93% of all online experiences begin with a search engine. Because search engines have become such a vital part of the average online experience, it’s important to make use of search engine optimization to maximize your online visibility, especially as a small business. By using the right keywords on your business’s website and in the content you create, you’ll be able to gradually increase your rankings on search engine results. This will lead to more visits to your website, which hopefully will increase the amount of business you get as a result of online traffic.
Keep Content In The Cloud
Nobody likes a cluttered desk filled with too many important documents to keep track of. Instead of using a filing cabinet and physical copies of documents for your business, consider uploading important information to the cloud. You’ll be more easily able to track down important information when you need it, and organization is far easier than sorting through piles of papers. As an added bonus, your company may also be able to save money and cut down on operations cost as a result. As many as 82% of companies reportedly saved money by moving to the cloud for data storage.
Live Up To Expectations With Lightning Speed
Depending on the industry your business operates in, digital information may be incredibly important. Tech startups, for example, require fast connection speeds and a stable online presence in order to thrive. If your small business relies on consistent speeds and lots of technology usage, consider upgrading your business network so your internet connection is as fast as possible. More high speed options are available every year, with fiber-optics currently providing some of the fastest speeds. A single optical fiber can carry over 3,000,000 full-duplex voice calls or 90,000 TV channels. While not every business will require that much power, it’s helpful to know that there are options available for every speed requirement and budget.
Keeping up with technological advancements as a small business owner is important – you never know what newest innovation or invention is going to be the one to help your business grow and succeed. If you’re hesitant about technology, start with just one of these options and see if you’re able to add on more once you’ve gotten comfortable with your new digital addition.
