It’s certainly no secret apps are making business easier – for everyone. But for executives, for whom every second in a day counts, they can be life – or at least deal – savers.
However, out of the scores of apps available, identifying the ones that will add efficiency and ease to the day can be a bit of a conundrum.
Jeffrey Hayzlett, former chief marketing officer at Eastman Kodak Co. and founder of The Hayzlett Group, a business consulting firm, offers a few suggestions on how the C-suite can best devote its app energy.
He recommends (in his words):
1. DocuSign
DocuSign provides eSignature solutions for any sized company, including SalesForce, LinkedIn, Angie’s List and Nationwide. It also has a freemium app, DocuSign Ink, that makes signing a breeze for anyone. It’s easy, secure, and fast – a definite must-have for any business.
2. ExpenseCloud
If you use ExpenseCloud, make sure you’ve downloaded their app. Their mobile receipt capture makes inputting expenses a breeze and you don’t need to search for a computer to create, submit and approve reports.
3. HootSuite
Manage your Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube and other social media profiles in one easy-to-use app. The simple design allows me to distinguish quickly which profile I’m about to update and I can schedule updates as I normally would on their website. Did I mention everything is in one easy-to-use location?
Must-Have Apps
4. Evernote
Evernote lets you take notes and capture things on the fly while at the same time syncing everything to your other devices. It’s a handy tool to have, especially when you don’t have the time to re-write or re-type notes into your computer.
5. United
I’m a very frequent flier of United Airlines and because of this I love their app. It allows me to book flights, check in, view account information and more with the tap of my finger. Plus, it’s one less thing to shuffle around while making it through security.
6. Twyxt
Stay in touch with your significant other and keep it between just you two. Share things like photos, lists, important dates, moods and messages securely and privately. Great thing to have, especially if you don’t want a potential client to get a love note or a grocery list intended for your partner!
7. Über
Stop hailing cabs and download Uber. Request a private car and Uber sends you text messages with the arrival time and when the car has arrived. Best part is you don’t have to worry about carrying cash – it’ll charge the credit card you have on file when you sign up.
8. Room 77
Sometimes the only tool you have in your hand is your phone. Don’t waste time Googling for a hotel near you – look up all the local hotels and their deals through Room 77. It’s a quick and efficient way to find a place to stay.
9. OpenTable
Another incredibly efficient app is OpenTable. Same concept as Room 77 but with restaurants. It goes beyond most restaurant locator apps because it also displays if there are reservations available. If your favorite restaurant isn’t listed, suggest it!
10. Lemon Wallet
Frequent travelers can fall unfortunate victim to a misplaced, lost, or stolen wallet. Save your credit cards, receipts and financial accounts in an encrypted, PIN-required location. Retailers can scan your card information right from your phone. If you fear your wallet is stolen, call Lemon Wallet and they’ll help you cancel your cards. In case your phone disappears, you can also unlink your accounts remotely.
