Toolbox

This page is a list of tools that the contributors have personally used and frequently recommend. Remember, don’t buy a tool just because it’s shiny and new, buy it when you absolutely need it.

The Basic Tools for Every Business

Domain Names and Hosting Services

Namecheap is the easiest to use for domains, with great customer service and free privacy protection on the first year, and they always have monthly discount coupon codes that you can grab.

This site is happily hosted at Reliable Webs ~ after trying out several other hosting services this became our home because they focus on small businesses, solopreneurs, and getting you up and running with personalized customer service instead of copy and paste responses like other hosting companies out there.

Email Marketing and List Management

If you’re on our newsletter list you probably already know that we love AWeber for email communications.

WordPress Themes, Plugins, and Widgets

We’re using Genesis framework and Child Themes from StudioPress here and on most of our other websites as well. Genesis is a great option because you can use it for yourself and for your clients, you don’t even have to buy a “developer option” like with other premium themes – it’s all included for one low price. Easy and affordable, what’s not to love?

Cool Tools for Virtual Assistants

Invoicing and Bookkeeping

Freshbooks makes things easy for you and your clients with a simple to use interface, professional invoices, and easy expense tracking. Free trial available.

SlickPie is a full online accounting system designed for bookkeepers, accountants, small businesses, and independent service providers of all sorts with plenty of features to make bookkeeping easier. They’re a small business too, so they’re very responsive to communications and open to hearing your feedback. If you send less than 100 invoices per month, your account is completely free. A pro upgrade is only $9.95 month for unlimited invoicing.

Social Media

HootSuite makes managing client social media accounts across multiple platforms almost effortless. Sign up for a Free 30 Day Trial of HootSuite Pro and get started saving yourself time and energy today.

Scheduling Meetings and Appointments

Appointment Scheduling Plugin for WordPress lets you take and manage your appointment schedule right from your WordPress dashboard. Super easy to use on both your side and the client’s side. Huge time saver since you can manage everything right from your website, no extra tools or monthly fees required.