From sending emails and checking the weather to browsing social media and managing finances, smartphones have an abundance of different applications. But is it possible to start a business from your mobile device?
Well, when you consider the fact that UK banks recently introduced a new layer of security for online purchases, involving passwords sent to your smartphone, it’s clear that more and more commercial activity is going mobile.
Here’s what you need to know about starting a business from your phone.
Consider a phone-friendly business model
First and foremost, if you’re going to start a business from your phone, it makes sense to choose an industry or enterprise that is well suited to the mobile activity. Options include social media marketing, content creation such as videography and podcasting, or mobile commerce (mCommerce).
However, that doesn’t mean to say other options are out of the question. For example, service-based businesses such as carpenters and cleaners can also establish an online footprint using just their mobile. As long as you’re listed on directory websites and have relevant social media accounts, people will still find you.
Identify and use the right apps
Running a business from your smartphone is a lot easier if you’ve got the right apps installed. And, with around two million to choose from, you’re bound to find the ones most relevant to your type of business.
Service-based enterprises will hugely benefit from apps that can track expenses and invoices, while mCommerce stores should make use of inventory management platforms that allow for effortless barcode scanning.
Be careful with communication
Despite the fact that running a business from your smartphone has several plus points, it also has a few drawbacks, including certain methods of communication. When compiling emails, a touchscreen is never going to be quicker or more accurate than an actual keyboard, so take your time when corresponding with important clients and customers.
Having said that, you could always explore alternative options instead, such as voice apps to dictate your responses or going more personal with video calls on Skype and FaceTime.
Get active on social media
Most social networks are perfectly suited to smartphones, so make sure you’re actively promoting your business and its products or services. To make things easier, consider creating a calendar of content with ideas gathered online.
However, not all social media networks are created equal, with demographics differing between Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Snapchat. So, focus your efforts on the platforms where your customers are most likely to be.
Make sure you’ve backed everything up
Another drawback of doing business on a smartphone is the lack of storage space, especially if you’re heavily reliant on multiple apps. But in many respects, this can be a blessing in disguise, as it will force you into backing up important data and information in the cloud.
That way if anything happens to your smartphones such as theft or damage, you’ll have a foolproof disaster recovery plan. Several cloud storage options are available on other devices too, providing you with versatility no matter where you decide to do business.