9 tools that will make your life easierTime is money when you’re running your own business, and free (or initially free) resources like these can help to save you both.ARTICLE BY The Mindspace Team - 21 April 2022 - READ TIME: 2 MIN

1. Planoly

This free app helps you to work, even when you’re not. Planoly allows you to plan and schedule social media for your business, then posting content later, when you’re already doing something else. It’s like a social media manager in your pocket. planoly.com

2. Evernote

You’ll never need another Post-It or notebook with Evernote. Use it to write down notes, ideas or to-do lists, or simply to save photos and links in the cloud. Plus, Evernote can be accessed from any device. evernote.com

3. Canva

Use Canva’s easy-to-use drag-and-drop function, layouts and templates to design professional graphics. On the free version, you’ll find more than 8 000 templates from social media posts and business cards to brochures and presentations. Once you’re happy with your design, simply download it as a PDF, JPEG or PNG file, even an MP4 animated video. canva.com

4. Unsplash

At some point you’ll need high-resolution stock images for your website or marketing material. All photographs on Unsplash are free to use, whether for commercial or non-commercial purposes. The only exception? You can’t resell them or use them to start a similar service. unsplash.com

5. Google alerts

Another handy tool, Google Alerts sends an email every time your business or brand is mentioned online. You can also set it up for specific keywords or to monitor your competitors’ online presence. google.co.za/alerts

6. Trello

Trello is a user-friendly app for managing tasks, workflows and projects. You can even use it to organise your day or track the time spent on a task. (Hello, time management!) trello.com/en

7. Lastpass

Tired of having to reset your passwords umpteen times because you cannot remember them? Using the LastPass app means you only need to remember one password – for the app itself. It also has a password generator to help create more secure passwords. lastpass.com

8. Vertex42

This is your one-stop shop for templates – whether you need an Excel spreadsheet, calendar or Word template, such as a business plan or letter. Vertex42’s templates are supported in Google Sheets, OpenOffice and Microsoft Word. vertex42.com

9. SME Toolkit South Africa

SME Toolkit South Africa is a free small business resource that provides information and online training. Topics range from conducting an interview to franchising. smetoolkit.businesspartners.co.za

This article originally appeared in Nine Yards magazine, Issue 1 2020. For more articles, videos and podcasts to help you grow your business, click here.