Forge News and Updates |
If you’re an entrepreneur, freelancer, or small business owner, you know the struggle of keeping everything organized. With so many tasks to balance, business-owners are constantly searching for ways to save time and make their life easier.
There are thousands of mobile apps that help with scheduling, finances, and group communication… but with so many to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start.
Sound overwhelming? We feel you. That’s why we asked our members and they gave us the best apps for managing their business.
1. Slack
If you’re apart of a team, Slack is perfect for keeping everyone engaged and informed. Slack simplifies communication and gives people the platform to share ideas.
Our member Connor Hand with Big Lead Gen Inc. says, “It’s perfect for segmenting conversations into channels. That way, it replaces email and keeps things from getting convoluted and messy.”
Not only are conversations organized… they’re also always accessible, so you can stay informed at any time.
“It’s great because it helps our team 24/7, like if we had a real office. We’re always virtually connected.”
So next time you miss a meeting, don’t worry – Slack has got you covered!
2. Linkedin
Looking for the best way to connect with other business leaders around the world? Luckily, there is a platform created just for that. With Linkedin, you are able to follow inspirational business leaders, find and attract talent, advertise jobs and grow your business.
“I think social media in general is important, but especially Linkedin. I’ve realized the importance of it and how effective it is in reaching people and building connections… then later following up and meeting those people.”
Wade Cline with Bham Now share his opinion on Linkedin, and we agree – as the world’s largest professional network, there is endless opportunity for every member.
3. Later
It’s no secret that social media is crucial to a new business – but not many businesses can spend all their time on figuring out what to post on Instagram next.
Jacqueline’s answer? Later!
Later allows brands to visually plan and schedule content for Instagram. As the #1 Marketing platform for Instagram, this app is perfect for companies wanting to grow their social media presence but need to optimize their time.
Additionally, setting up queues within the app saves you from scrambling for another picture to post. It also allows you to be more consistent with posting and gives the option analyze and track post data.
Our member Jacqueline Jones with One Degree Marketing says, “Later lets you see your Instagram feed so you can plan it visually. You can move things around to create the aesthetic you want, while still figuring out how to promote and sell accordingly.”
4. Lastpass
Everyone can understand the frustration in seeing the words ‘incorrect password’ pop up on your screen – and that’s why this app is one of our favorites.
The idea? Simple.
Gary Purdy, Pastor at Church City Midtown says, “I use Lastpass so I don’t have to remember passwords – and I’m able to share passwords with my virtual assistant so she can access any information she needs.”
Just choose a master password, and Lastpass does the rest. You can rest easy knowing your information is safe, secure, and will never be forgotten.
5. Google Drive
There’s no denying that one of the most difficult things about running a business is keeping everything organized. With so many different moving parts, it helps to have one place where everything is kept together.
Our member Brandon Loper says, “The Google Drive app is definitely my number one… it helps me keep all my documents in one place and share them easily.”
In addition, Google Drive allows access from any server. This means you’re able to synchronize files between a computer, tablet, smartphone, etc… and the best part is, you get 15GB of free storage.
Not only does the app allow access to information easily on your smartphone, but you never run the risk of losing any documents. All files are backed up, stored securely, and within reach.
6. Pocket
Have you ever read a good article and couldn’t find it later? Frustrating – we agree.
That’s where Pocket comes in. It allows you to find something you like and put it in your pocket! Whether you’re looking at articles, videos, or images online, anything can be saved to be accessed again later.
Kate Newbill with 2FishWeb LLC. calls it her favorite. “What I’ll do is read through things; I’ll see something like ‘How to improve your SEO.’ I’ll save it, and go back and read it later.”
Pocket takes the pressure off of content creating and allows you to save time in the future. Ideas, inspiration, you name it – this app allows you to bookmark it all.
7. Google Keep
With so many tasks to keep up with every day, Google Keep has the perfect solution for keeping it all in one place. As a note-taking service designed to save your thoughts, this app sets reminders, creates checklists, and keeps it all within reach.
Kathy Drewien of Kathy Drewien & Company says, “With Google Keep, I can record a note on my device and it will be transcribed (fairly accurately in my experience) into a searchable, editable note. I like to use Keep for short-term information retrieval – reminders, quick lists, brilliant ideas – and my Android app is always on, always live.”
Step up your to-do list and download Google Keep!
8. GoToMeeting
If you’re anything like our member Shannon Striver with OneSouth Financial Group, you’ve got a lot going on during your day. One way he’s able to stay on top of it is with GoToMeeting.
This app allows you to attend a meeting… from your mobile device. With screen sharing capabilities and high quality video, GoToMeeting lets you feel like you’re in the room with the presenter. You can listen in on conference calls, share a document or presentation, and set reminders for future meetings. With this app, everything is kept organized before, during, and after your meeting.
Shannon puts it to use often. He says, “As soon as I get in my car, I open GoToMeeting. I’m on my way, but still able to listen in.”
9. Dropbox
Our member Anoop Mishra of Mishra Consulting LLC takes teamwork to the next level with Dropbox.
“Dropbox is something I’ve used for years for photos, but now I rely on it so much more for my business. We’ve got so many large files we have to share and I’m able to exchange lots of different information and sites easily. It’s such an important part of being able to work with clients so we don’t have to email documents back and forth or copy 20 people on an email.”
This app provides a secure way to store and share large files of information to your team members. It’s easy to use and free for 30 days!
10. InShot
If you’re looking for ways to vamp up your social media advertising, look no further. Josh Rhodes from Big Lead Gen Inc. gives us his perfect app for photo and video editing.
InShot has it all: fun buttons, easy texts, stickers to promote subscribing to social media accounts. It allows you to create videos that have much more of an attention-grabbing effect than your typical Instagram story.
“It combines features of Instagram and Snapchat and gives you so much more but on a produced level.”
So many different features add a creative edge for Big Lead Gen Inc.’s marketing. It could do the same for yours!
Got any more to add to the list? Let us know in the comments below!
Forge News and Updates |
2018 is here! Let the recommitments to greatness begin! Before you hail off into 365 days hard work and success, there are a few things you may want to be sure you have to guarantee you’re ready.
A Bomb Team
If you plan to blow up, you’re going to need to surround yourself with the best! Take a minute and really write out your business process. Start at idea and creation to purchase and follow-up. How many different jobs did you discover you’ve been doing on your own? Try to get as many willing people in those positions as possible. It’s completely fine if you can only afford one. Having others as a part of your process will not only give you a greater capacity for work, but it will give you fresh ideas, thoughts, and criticism (embrace it).
A Refreshed Brand Image
Now is the time to determine if you need to spruce anything up. Even if you don’t execute it now, knowing that there, for example, is a major website overhaul coming in a few months may change how you promote your business. Ask yourself if you’re happy with your current logo, headshots, etc. If you’re happy with everything, ask yourself,” what will make me stand out even more in 2018?” Remember, you are about to see an onslaught of updated brands and new brands! How can you put a little shine on your brand’s image and presentation to ensure you’re still competing?
A Mentor
Whether this is your first year in business or your thirty-first, get a mentor. January is actually National Mentor Month. So, this is the perfect time to find someone in your field or industry, or even that you just identify with, who has the resources and skill set to help guide your career to positive places. Mentorship is such an important aspect of running a business. Entrepreneurs are naturally self-starters and often don’t ask for guidance. Remember, you don’t know everything. You can’t possibly know everything. A mentor can tell you where they’ve been, what mistakes they made, what lessons they’ve learned, who can help you, and more. You don’t have to talk to them everyday for the mentor relationship to work. Whomever you ask will likely be thrilled that you thought of them and do all they can to help you be successful.
A Trust Information Resource (or 2 or 3…)
Everything about our lives is constantly changing. As a business owner, it can be extremely difficult to stay up-to-date on the latest changes, not only in your industry, but in other aspects of running your business. There is no way to know all the changes to the new tax laws, the latest Google ranking details, or the latest Facebook algorithm updates. It’s always a good idea to identify early where you will pull your information so that you aren’t winging it every time something changes or you need guidance. For marketing and branding, Fire Starters, an upcoming One Degree membership, is a great resource. If you’re a solopreneur or entrepreneur who isn’t in a position to outsource your marketing strategy and planning needs, Fire Starters, will give you access to marketing information constantly at a comparably lower cost than hiring a marketing company full time. Joining Fire Starters, and services like it, can help you stay on track and keep you informed as quickly as you work to maintain and grow your business.
(Want to find out when Fire Starters membership opens? Click here to be notified.)
A Scheduled Break
I bet you didn’t see that coming. Right now, in January, decide when you’re going to take a break. You may not be in a position to take a vacation, or may not even want to. But, you must remember, in order to operate at your best, you have to take time to reset. A few hours every week are great for keeping your sanity. However, planning a weekend, a week, or even 2 weeks of unplugging is important. If you have a family, plan a time that you don’t have to say the words “mommy’s coming, give me one sec, almost done.” Give yourself the break you deserve and need to sustain the amazing business your are building.
Do not live your life in 2018 as a small business owner without these things. They may seem simple enough to overlook today. But, having them in place will save you time and money throughout the year.
Happy New Year!
Jacqueline Jones
One Degree MMM
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Forge News and Updates |
Forge is the first coworking space or “shared” office space in downtown Birmingham! According to Forbes, there are currently more than 11,000 coworking spaces in the United States. It was projected that by 2020 we would see more than 26,000 spaces hosting 3.8 million people! With the rise of millennial entrepreneurs, shared office space is more and more appealing for many reasons.
If you aren’t familiar with the idea of coworking, let us give you more information. Multiple businesses work from Forge whether they are in a private office or working with a membership in our common space. Every member has access to our conference rooms, phone booths, networking and educational events. Almost like a gym membership, Forge members pay a monthly membership fee for access to our space. Our membership costs range from $189-325 a month- far less than your average office space.
Keep reading! We’ll tell you why coworking is a great investment for your business.
1. Networking
Get ready to brainstorm and connect with other entrepreneurs who are working on projects and similar challenges. Also join in on the social events a coworking space offers- happy hours, food tastings and much more.
2. Flexibility
Coworking spaces are designed to accommodate growth! You can easily start with a smaller membership and move up to a full-time membership or private office if your company needs it. If you need to cancel your membership, you can! Generally it’s just less commitment for you.
3. Affordability
Coworking spaces cost a fraction of a traditional office space lease! If you need to add additional items like a mailbox, you can. If you’ve been working from coffee shops, I bet you’ll save money with the free Revelator coffee offered at Forge! Also things like cleaning and maintenance are handled by the company, giving you less responsibility.
4. Service.
Coworking spaces are familiar with the needs of a startup and provide resources to help your business grow. Forge’s Lunch & Learn event topics have ranged from Accounting to Online Marketing to Instagram for your Business. Forge staff is available to serve your business’ specific needs!
This infographic sums up a lot of the advantages to coworking. Avoid the distractions and isolation of your home office. Steer clear of the unreliable wifi and inconveniences of a coffee shop. Increase your productivity in a shared work space!
Hear from some of our visitors and members…
“What a fantastic place to meet like-minded entrepreneurs and grow your business network! Forge also has a variety of offices available for rent, including a penthouse workspace that was perfect for my team of 10 coming from out of town.”
Justin
“I have really enjoyed working at Forge. Forge allows me to focus better than I’m able to at home. I feel more connected to what’s going on in the city.”
Adam
“Since joining Forge, our business activity has sky rocketed, I’ve created relationships (professionally and cordially), and my productivity has never been better. Needless to say, being around a community of other hustlers can certainly rub off on your work ethic.”
Wade
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Forge News and Updates |
Emilie Maynor knows about nutrition, exercise and how to achieve an overall healthy lifestyle. Emilie is a yoga instructor and Integrative Health Coach– helping you make healthy life choices to improve your energy and balance. She’s one of our founding Forge members and she’s inspiring each of us to be more mindful. Emilie speaks to corporate groups about employee wellness and here’s an excerpt of her writing about one of those conferences.
In 2016, I had the opportunity to speak to a vibrant group of America’s First Federal Credit Union employees on creating “The Mindful Workday.” Y’all – these guys were so much fun! Corporate Wellness and speaking engagements are a big part of my business and it is such a joy when people attending the sessions are open minded and engaged. We talked about simple changes anyone can make to help reduce stress and feel present throughout the workday. Everyone was such a great sport – even when I asked them to move through some desk yoga!
So, when AmFirst invited me back for the 2017 Employee Engagement Conference, I was THRILLED. When they told me I would be speaking to 162 people, I was like WHOA…that’s a lot of people. Can I even do that?
95% of being an entrepreneur is asking that question, daily; then digging deep to answer back, of course you can.
Nothing soothes my nerves like feeling prepared! Whether it’s planing ahead for a workshop or prepping for my week with a fully stocked kitchen, it helps me feel a sense of balance and achievement. So, despite feeling a little overwhelmed, I got to work on my presentation, Creating Sustainable Change. In the session, I planned to discuss elements that shape our conditioned behaviors, realistic goal setting, and my top tips for kickstarting REAL change. I want you guys to benefit from this preparation and tips as well, so I’m sharing them here.
Change occurs when we take time to really get to know ourselves, habits and patterns.
This knowledge is the catalyst for lasting change. Self-awareness is the foundation of smart goal setting, too. Once you’ve identified your behavior patterns, it’s time to create a goal that’s inline with your nature. A goal that honors where you are in the moment.
Don’t forget, these goals should be SMALL, SPECIFIC & MANAGEABLE, so they can easily assimilate into your life.
Kickstarting Real Change!
1. Stop placing value on everything – neutralize your feelings about good vs bad foods or behaviors to remove yourself from the reward vs restriction tug of war.
2. Practice Crowding Out – add in good foods or behaviors instead of removing things. The habits you want to get rid of naturally begin to “crowd out.”
3. Follow the 80/20 Rule – 80% of the time make the best choices you can with what is available. 20% of the time, you just live life 🙂
3. Act like you love yourself – treating yourself with compassion is the best way to create real change. Give yourself the same care and support you would give a friend. ”
— Emilie Maynor, Wellness Coach & RYT 500
