Recommended Tools & Resources
everything you need to run a successful online business
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One of the hardest parts of running an online business? Knowing what tools & resources are available and which ones best suits your needs.
It can take days, weeks, and sometimes months to learn how to use a new tool…only to find out it’s not really what you need!
This list is everything I have used and personally recommend so you don’t have to go through the pain of trial-and-error on your own.
You’ll find many free resources & some that are paid but totally worth the investment …all of them are carefully selected to help build a profitable & sustainable online business.
*Some of the links below are affiliate links, which means I may get a commission if you make a purchase. You may also receive a discount or special offer by using my affiliate links.
For Your Website
website building platform
WORDPRESS.org
If you’re serious about building your foundation online & creating content like a blog, YouTube channel, or podcast…then WordPress.org is still the reigning champ to help you build the most effective traffic driving & revenue generating website. And it’s 100% free.
website hosting & domain registration
siteground
You want your website host to be fast, secure, priced right, and easy to use. I have worked with many other platforms & SiteGround is hands-down the #1 choice of them all. When you sign up, you can also register your domain and install WordPress with just one click. Get the best prices available thru my link!
website page builder
Elementor Pro
I wouldn’t build a website without a Page-Builder and Elementor is the best of the best. They do have a free option, but at only $49 the Pro version is worth every penny and will save you a ton of money on several other apps & programs that you’ll no longer need!
additional website tools
website plugins
Here’s a quick run-down of all the must-have (and free) plugins I install on all my website builds: Wordfence Security, Yoast SEO, Monster Insights, Insert Headers & Footers, Pretty Links, Cookie Notice for GDPR & CCPA (by dFactory), and SG Optimizer (installs automatically with SiteGround).
Email & MarketinG
email service provider
Mailerlite
You need an email list. And you need a safe, secure, and reliable Email Service Provider to help you market to and manage & your list properly. MailerLite is free up to 1000 subscribers and they are, by-far, the easiest ESP available today.
graphic design & more
Canva Pro
I use Canva almost every single day in my business. They have a free account, but the paid version allows you to download premium stock images, videos, remove backgrounds on photos & more…it’s worth every.single.penny.
YouTube SEO & Stats
Tube buddy
Do not start a YouTube channel without downloading Tube Buddy. Their free version is all you need to ensure you optimize all of your videos so you can get the most possible views and track your channel stats (as well as everyone else’s!)
Pinterest marketing
Tailwind
Pinterest is the best kept secret in online business. And Tailwind automates the pinning for you. It will post your pins at the most optimal times & also let you join content-sharing Tribes to give you an even bigger boost of traffic. Their basic plan is a must-have if you are on Pinterest. Save $15 with my affiliate link!
Business Operations
screen recordings
Loom
It doesn’t get any easier than Loom for screen recordings. You can record tutorials, YT videos, feedback for clients and more with Loom and it’s free. I use this tool several times a day! It’s one of my favorite tools of them all.
Time & Project Management
Asana
If you’re ready to get more organized in your business, Asana is my favorite time management tool. I use it to organize all my client projects, content calendar, and business operations. I love that you can switch between list views and board views and it’s free!
Cloud-Based File Storage
Google Drive
I heart Google – for many reasons, but Google Drive is the best cloud storage platform. You can create & store everything you need and access it from any device at any time. You can share freebies, client files, and more with the click of a button – it’s a game changer and it’s free with every gmail account.
Secure Video Storage
Vimeo
If you want the most secure way to save your storage-draining videos, then Vimeo is the best value for your money. Their basic plan is all you need to get started and you can rest easy knowing no one can download & swipe your private course or client videos.
Graphics, Stock Images, Fonts & more
creative market
Creative Market has a great selection of images, graphics, fonts, and templates for everything you need to design in your business. I use their fonts the most, but I go to them first for any design needs beyond my capabilities.
clients & revenue
video conferencing calls
Zoom
By now everyone in the world is familiar with Zoom for video-conferencing calls. I do suggest upgrading to their paid plan so you can host calls that are longer than 45 minutes with your clients. Skype and Google Meet are other options as well.
client management
honeybook
I love the simplicity & functionality of HoneyBook. When you’re ready to upgrade to an automated client-onboarding system, then HB is the best choice. Process client applications & invoices, send automated emails, schedule client appointments, and so much more. Save 50% off your first year with my referral link!
online booking calendar
Acuity Scheduling
Acuity Scheduling is a great tool to start with for an automated appointment online calendar. Setup an initial discovery call and easily post the link on your website and social media for potential new client bookings. Calendly is another great option as well.
team & client communication
slack
Get out of your inbox and off social media! Slack streamlines communications within a team, a group or mastermind, and even 1:1 clients. Never lose an email or a file you need again when you do all of your communicating inside Slack – and it’s free.
accounting and taxes
Quickbooks Self-Employed
You could track all of your expenses with pen & paper or in a DIY spreadsheet – or you could upgrade to QBSE. It’s so easy to use and makes tax-time a breeze. Most bookkeepers and tax accountants are familiar with and prefer QBSE as well.
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