Marketing Tools & Resources
A practical list of recommended business tools covering productivity, communication, marketing, automation and finance, used and trusted in real businesses.
Marketing
Tools & resources
A practical list of
business tools covering productivity, communication, marketing, automation and finance, used and trusted
in real businesses.
Tools that support clarity, not complexity
Over the years, I’ve tested a lot of tools. Some added value. Many added noise.
The tools listed here are ones I regularly use or recommend because they genuinely help business owners save time, stay organised, communicate clearly and make better decisions. You do not need all of them. The right tools depend on your business, your stage and your capacity.
Part of good marketing and good systems is knowing why you are using a tool, not just having one.
Productivity Tools for Small Business
Monday
A flexible work management platform that suits businesses needing clear structure and visual workflows. Especially useful for teams managing repeat processes. https://monday.com
Asana
A project management tool that helps you track tasks, projects and deadlines clearly. Ideal for keeping work visible and reducing things falling through the cracks. https://asana.com
Text Expander
Saves time by turning short snippets into longer blocks of text. Useful for emails, proposals and repeated responses so you are not rewriting the same thing every day. https://textexpander.com
ChatGPT
A support tool for drafting content, refining messaging and exploring ideas more efficiently. Most effective when guided by clear strategy and human judgement. https://chat.openai.com
Marketing Tools for Small Business
GetResponse
An email marketing and automation platform used to send newsletters, nurture leads and communicate consistently with your audience. https://www.getresponse.com
Buffer
A social media scheduling tool that helps you plan and publish content consistently without logging into multiple platforms every day. https://buffer.com
Later
A visual content planning tool, particularly useful for scheduling and previewing social media posts ahead of time. https://later.com
Capsule CRM
A lightweight customer relationship management (CRM) system that helps track contacts, leads and client interactions without unnecessary complexity. https://capsulecrm.com
Canva
An accessible design tool that helps businesses create marketing assets quickly while maintaining brand consistency. Best used with a clear brand framework. https://www.canva.com
Communications Tools for Small Business
Loom
Allows you to record quick videos to explain ideas, give feedback or walk someone through a process. Great for reducing meetings and avoiding long email threads. https://www.loom.com
Calendly
Simplifies booking meetings by removing back-and-forth emails. Clients can book time with you based on your availability. https://calendly.com
Bonjoro
A personal video messaging tool used to send short, friendly videos to clients. Helps build stronger relationships and stand out in a crowded inbox. https://www.bonjoro.com
Google Workspace
Email, calendars, documents and file storage in one place. Forms the backbone of day-to-day communication and collaboration for most small businesses. https://workspace.google.com
Financial Tools for Small Business
Xero
Cloud-based accounting software used to manage invoicing, expenses and financial reporting. Provides visibility over cash flow and business performance. https://www.xero.com
Stripe
Online payment processing that allows clients to pay invoices and services quickly and securely. Reduces friction and improves cash flow. https://stripe.com
Quotient
An online quoting tool that simplifies proposal creation, approvals and follow-ups. Helps reduce friction between quoting and getting paid. https://www.quotientapp.com
Final Note
Tools are most effective when they support clear thinking and good systems. During coaching, I often help businesses choose the right tools, set them up properly and actually use them in a way that saves time and reduces stress.
Not sure which tools make sense for your business?