Here are a few low cost software options for new business start ups that I have found useful in my business.

These are listed in the Appendix to my book ‘A Guide to Business Networking for Small Business Owners.’ The book also includes a series of exercises, which you can access here

Capsule CRM – this is free up to 250 contacts and acts as personal database. You can add the person’s details, tag them with the event you met them at and email them directly. You can also add in any pipeline from referrals and set up tracks to remind you to chase people up.

Transpond – this is the email marketing tool linked to Capsule CRM where you can set up newsletter templates, send out newsletters to segments, have sign up forms with automated responses, schedule social posts and enable live chat on your website – from £7 per month

Mailchimp – a very popular email marketing tool, where you can set up automated responses and landing pages – free for up to 500 contacts.

Calendly – an online booking system allowing people to book meetings, appointments or training sessions with you – the paid version allows you to take payments for sessions in advance. Limited free version, then from £8 per month

Linktree – a handy way of directing people to multiple links: e.g. booking page; events page; blog; newsletter; offers; FAQs. It is frequently used in the biography section of Instagram; it is also great for your signature on emails – free for basic package

Buffer – a simple way to share and schedule posts to social media – free for up to 3 social media profiles and much more simple than Hootsuite

Canva – a graphic design package that helps you set up stunning visuals your business – free for a limited number of designs.

 

This list includes affiliate links.