When I read through my reader survey responses earlier this month, I came across a few questions about doing business online; some of you wanted to know what tools I use, some of you wanted to know how I learned everything that I know (up to this point), and some of you wanted more sharing of said information.
So, I'm here to tell you that it takes a village--of apps, services, products, + technology--to run an online business. It also takes a lot of time, a lot of googling for resources, directions, + how-to videos, and a lot of trial and error to learn the wide variety of skills you need to know in order to blog, podcast, offer online design services, consulting services, etc. Just like any other business, trade, or skill, you have to put in the time to actually learn about the industry and then stay up-to-date as the industry changes; it's not easy. That being said, there are a TON of tools that make running a business online *much* easier. And I wouldn't know about many of these amazing tools if I hadn't learned about them from fellow online business peeps. So today, although I have shared some of this information piecemeal in the past, I wanted to compile a complete, updated roundup of ALL of the tools that I use in the various areas of my online business. I hope that this list is helpful to you as you build your own online presence or brand...and again, remember that you don't learn this stuff overnight, but it is all very learnable if you put in the time + energy ;) Here we go...! Website/Blogging Platforms
Newsletter/Mailing List Management
Podcast Creation + Hosting
Video Creation + Hosting
eBook Creation, Order, + Delivery
Accounting + Invoicing
Free {Beautiful, Not Cheesy} Image Sources
File Organization
Free Blog Widgets/Apps:
Blog Ad Networks
Online Shop
Scheduling
And there you go. {Phew.} I had no idea how many tools I rely on until I made this list. Thank goodness for all of these free apps, programs, and websites I use! They make life SO much easier. Have a favorite tool that I didn't include? Please post to comments so other readers (and I) can learn about it! Hi Mary-Catherine...great post! You've provided a TON of information and it will be very helpful in the development of my own business, matsdown.com. I use Weebly also, and at times wonder if I should switch, but usually end up deciding not to. I will be checking out FreshBooks, since I'm looking for a way to start bookkeeping. Thanks!!
Mary Catherine
3/23/2016 05:18:13 am
So glad this is helpful, Julie! If there's one thing I can say about Weebly it's that it is EASY to use, which is great ;) And yes, can't recommend Freshbooks enough! Have fun ;) xo
Mary Catherine
3/23/2016 05:18:49 am
Yes, Pexels is great! I've also used them in the past. Thanks for adding to the conversation! xo 12/28/2016 11:58:06 pm
I read that Post and got it fine and informative. Please share more like that... Comments are closed.
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HELLO!I'm Mary Catherine, a Cape Cod-based yoga teacher, painter, designer, writer, mom, and list-maker extraordinaire. My goal is to inspire you to start living a more creative, simple, joyful, + purposeful life.
{Learn more + read my story}
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