If you’re starting a new small business, you’ll likely need help with a number of areas. However, you can take advantage of a variety of free services that offer valuable help. Some of these programs are provided by government corporations, while others are free until their user base grows. Below are some of the best resources for helping you get started with your small business. Just be sure to check the terms and conditions of these services before using them, and you’ll be well on your way.
Small business services fall into seven different categories, with each category focusing on a particular function. These categories are: communication, human resources, insurance, marketing, and legal services. Each of these categories focuses on a specific aspect of the business and the owner’s needs. The types of services available depend on the size and type of the company, which makes them an essential part of a business’s operation. Small businesses often hire these services to cut down on costs and increase efficiency.
Google services
Google cloud is a free service from Google that offers 15GB of storage, a calendar, and the ability to post content on Google+ and YouTube. Another useful feature is collaboration through a cloud-based drive. Many small business owners use Gmail’s drive to store files and edit them in real-time, and they can share and save them to various places. This makes them easy to access and share. The service is also easy to manage and does not require large investment.
Cloud computing makes real-time data and programs available to everyone. This helps businesses increase efficiency and unite their workforce. Project management is simplified, and job sharing and shift-working are also made easier with cloud-based software and file-sync. Small businesses can benefit from cloud services by allowing their employees to access their files and programs from anywhere. This is especially beneficial for businesses with no physical space to store their own information. Moreover, cloud-based software can also make things easier for those who are working from home.
GoToConnec
Another cloud-based business phone service that has a host of features is GoToConnect. Its cloud business phone service is equipped with all the features that larger businesses would pay for separately. For instance, GoToConnect’s cloud-based phone service includes unlimited number queues, advanced dialpad editor, cloud branch exchange, paging system, eFax, and more. It is part of the GoTo family, and seamlessly integrates with the rest of the GoTo software. Prices range from $24 a month for basic business phone service to $38 for more advanced features.
- Managed IT Services also help keep your systems running smoothly and efficiently. This can prevent costly security breaches and other problems that can disrupt your day-to-day operations. Managed IT services offer a variety of expert services, all for one predictable monthly fee. Businesses tend to put additional work on unqualified employees, which may lead to expensive problems in the long run. Managed IT services are an excellent choice for small businesses. Managed IT services help companies focus on the tasks that matter most to their business.
- When Trouble Strikes is a crisis planner for small businesses. Whether natural or manmade, disasters can impact your business. While you can’t prevent every disruption, you can minimize the likelihood and the impact of them. When Trouble Strikes helps small business owners avoid disaster by teaching them proven methods to identify potential disruptions and recover from them. The program includes video lessons and assignments from experts. A few minutes of consulting can go a long way.
- Accounting is a common area for small business outsourcing. Non-financial experts often have to learn the intricacies of accounting and complying with compliance standards. Outsourcing this task to someone with a specific skill set increases efficiency and saves money. Moreover, accounting professionals can work with multiple businesses, enabling them to be more efficient and save on time. The right accountant can make the difference between success and failure.
- While the office of small business (OSB) was part of the U.S. Department of Commerce, it was mostly educational. It believed that lack of information was a primary reason why small businesses failed. They conducted management counseling for entrepreneurs. They were similar to the SWPC. Another wartime organization, the Small Defense Plants Administration, had similar functions. It was still the RFC that had the ultimate lending authority. This organization continues to be an excellent resource for any small business.
