Freelancers and “mobilepreneurs” are a busy bunch. They’re collaborators and innovators who need to maximize their time and connect with partners and clients anywhere, anytime.
The following online tools are just the ticket for staying productive and connected. Best of all, these tools are either free or dirt cheap, so you can build your competitive business toolkit without going broke.
Everybody is talking about Evernote. There’s no better way to capture articles and Web content, organize your thoughts, create notes, and manage your research from one place. The search system makes it easy to sort and find by topic or keywords. Evernote synchs across all your connected devices so your information is always within reach. Free and premium versions available.
This is project management and marketing tool lets you set up virtual workspaces; share project files with clients and external team members; organize, comment and collaborate. Many of the features can be easily customized and Podio support is fast and friendly. Free up to five users.
This cloud-based accounting and invoicing system is ideal for freelancers and consultants who don’t need all the clutter of QuickBooks™. It’s easy to track project hours, income and expenses. You can also set up your invoicing system so that you can receive payments online via credit card or PayPal. As low as $19.95/month.
As the name implies, Rapportive is a LinkedIn tool designed to foster rapport and authentic connections. It integrates with your Gmail so that you can see a contact’s photo, their LinkedIn profile, common interests and connections. This is a great way to streamline your online networking without leaving your Gmail. Free add-on for Firefox and Chrome.
Google is a cloud-based document management system that seamlessly integrates real-time communication, file sharing and storage. This is an easy way for remote teams to share and manage projects and schedules. Free up to 15 GB of storage.
A.M. Knoop is a DC-based freelance copywriter and editor. You can find her online at amknoopwriter.com.
