The month of May, nationally recognized as National Small Business Month, celebrates the innovation and spirit that small and medium-sized companies bring to their local neighborhoods and to the broader U.S. economy.
It also highlights various opportunities for entrepreneurs to discover new technologies and best practices which support and promote efficiency within their companies.
As part of National Small Business Month, Verizon Wireless has developed a few tips for SMB owners and entrepreneurs on the best ways to use wireless technology.
Six ways mobile technology can be a small business' best friend:
•Join the tablet movement. Designed to be ultra-slim and lightweight, a powerful tablet is just as practical and cost-effective a tool as any laptop. Fast and supported by a variety of apps, tablets, such as the Samsung Galaxy Tab 7.7, allow small business owners and entrepreneurs to quickly access data, share reports and presentations, or create exciting videos to showcase their expertise and successes. Whether in or out of the office, users have peace of mind, knowing they are always connected and up to date on the company's operations.
•Get more business with mobile payments. No cash? No problem. Big companies are not the only ones who can take credit card payments now. With a mobile payment system like the Intuit GoPayment app, coupled with a smartphone or tablet, a small business can make a significant impact in their sales by accepting plastic, no matter where they conduct business.
•App-ccessorize! Apps have become a way of mobile life. For an entrepreneur, they are the lifeblood of their workflow. With literally thousands of apps for all types of business operations, small- and medium-sized business (SMB) owners no longer have to sift through them endlessly. Tools like the easy-to-use Small Business Advisor from Verizon Wireless make identifying top-rated apps for any industry, device operating system or task effortless by winnowing down the clutter and finding the right ones for the user.
•Or make your own. Many businesses are creating their own apps to better interact with employees and customers alike while streamlining everyday tasks. Creating and deploying an app of your own can help create a stronger brand image for your company.
•Hit the road with confidence. For entrepreneurs trying to grow their companies, travel is a necessity and being able to take a high-speed Internet connection wherever they go is invaluable. With mobile hotspots, such as the Novatel or ZTE Jetpacks, in their pocket, business owners can easily get work done and stay in touch with employees and clients while on the road.
•Get expert advice without paying a penny. By the end of this year, more than half of U.S. cellphones will be smartphones, according to a report from Nielsen. SMB owners shouldn't hesitate to take advantage of the free resources in their communities, such as Verizon Wireless' in-store business specialists or Wireless Workshops, which will help them get the most out of their smartphones, tablets and other wireless technology.
Small and medium-sized businesses with a My Business account from Verizon Wireless can also receive exclusive discounts from trusted industry leaders using the Verizon Discount Program. At no additional cost, participating customers are entitled to exclusive discounts and savings on key business services.
