Running a startup is a whirlwind of creativity and hard work. When you’re putting so much of your time and money into something, you’ll want to see improvements ongoing and keep hitting your goals. Entrepreneurs today are pretty spoilt with the amount of technology at their disposal. But with so many options out there, it can be challenging to know where to start. If you’re looking to decide what your technology priorities should be, take a look at some of these nifty tips.

Cyber Security

When you’re running a company online, you’ll need to be aware of potential security threats. It’s increasingly common for small businesses to be affected by security breaches, which compromise their data, time, money, and reputation. If you’re using the cloud, it’s important to utilize a strong cloud-security system to protect your business. You should also invest in an identity verification system to control which users are accessing your network and data. Companies such as Jumio offer some powerful and effective solutions involving AI and biometrics. With highly effective systems in place, you’ll rest easy that your users are who they claim to be.

CRM software  

CRM means customer relationship management software. The software is used to organize and manage all of the interactions with your customers in one place. Each customer account includes their personal information, preferences, and history of interactions with your company. Such a system can access a customer’s social media information or store details on how they prefer to be contacted. Each employee in your company will have access, so it’s easier to provide the customer with an enhanced and personalized experience. With CRM you’ll increase leads and improve collaboration across teams. Each of your teams will be able to increase their productivity, from customer service to sales and marketing. 

Chatbots 

Chatbots are a type of artificial intelligence software that can simulate conversations with customers via messaging platforms or social media. A chatbot is programmed to be able to answer many common and frequently asked questions. If the chatbot is unable to answer a query, the software can automatically escalate the query to a human staff member. Chatbots are an excellent time-saving piece of software for your business. Often, customers will ask the same simple questions frequently, so it can be a fast and effective solution to use chatbots to deal with these. Chatbots can be particularly effective if you have a small team but lots of customers.

Many customers now prefer to contact a company via instant messenger. Responding consistently to customers via messenger can sometimes be a little demanding for your team. Chatbots can respond to queries 24/7, so you’ll impress your customers with an around the clock response. Chatbots do not mean that there’s no need for a customer service team; it’s just more about improving on the service practices that you already have in place! 

Webinars 

Webinars are live online seminars whereby you can present yourself to an audience of consumers and stakeholders. These can be useful if you would like to demonstrate a product or give an industry-related talk, for instance. The great thing about webinars is that your audience can ask you questions live for you to respond. Webinars can be an excellent way for your company to showcase personality and branding. Many customers love to meet the face behind the brand, so this can be an effective marketing tool. The popularity of webinars has increased greatly in recent years, along with video marketing. When it comes to social media, videos are more frequently shared than photography or written content. 

Project management software 

Without the use of project management software, you’ll spend more time briefing each team, emailing, and assigning projects in person. By using software the whole process is streamlined. You can easily assign projects online, add instructions and notes, message in real time and collaborate. What’s more, you can access the system on-the-go via the cloud. Technology has allowed us to make use of cloud-based systems, which open up the opportunities for more employees to work remotely. Working from multiple locations enables your team to have less downtime and to complete projects more efficiently. 

 

Don’t forget to make the most of social media and blogging to improve your online presence. Startups really benefit from achieving a great online presence early on. It’s all about being constantly responsive on social media and posting content that your audience identify with. Such platforms allow companies to find their ideal customers easily using targeted marketing techniques.