23 Best Apps for Solopreneurs
The name of the entrepreneurship game: Streamline!
Solopreneurs can benefit significantly from using apps. They run their business on their own and could use the extra tech support.
From the start, solopreneurs can utilize apps to run their businesses. These tools can be particularly advantageous. Apps can not only enhance productivity and organization, but also communication, marketing, and all other aspects of a solopreneur’s business. Calendar and scheduling apps, note-taking apps, task management apps, communication apps, email management apps, and especially CRM (Customer Relationship Management) apps are just some of the types of apps that can help solopreneurs streamline their workload and become more productive.
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Which Apps Are Best for Solopreneurs?
So, it should be simple, right? Well, choosing the right apps for a solopreneur can be quite a challenge, actually. Just look at your phone’s app store, and you will be overwhelmed right away. There are literally thousands of apps available.
But fear not. We’ve done the research for you so you can be sure which ones are best to invest in. However, different solopreneurs have different requirements and tasks to fulfill, so there is no one-size-fits-all. We will look at apps that generally improve most operations and provide the potential to make every solo boss’s life a little more convenient.
Furthermore, security should always be a main focus, so only trusted and industry-verified apps should be downloaded and used. Solopreneurs will handle sensitive data—their own and their clients's—and there can be no room for error when it comes to security.
Our App-Picking Process
Before we introduce the best apps for solopreneurs, let’s go over how we at She’s A Given made selected them. We checked for general compatibility and reviews. Reading some of the app reviews can be a helpful way to break down the quality and reliability of an app. Moreover, peer reviews are even better. Colleagues might already use an app, so getting feedback from people you know or trust is always helpful.
On the other hand, apps with lots of negative reviews might be better left alone as reliability, ease of use, and value to users could be detrimental. As we discussed before, security and privacy are essential. It’s always a good idea to review an app’s privacy policy before handling sensitive client information on it.
Moreover, the app’s terms of service will explain how data is protected. Cost might also be a deciding factor as some apps are free, and some offer subscription models or one-time payments. Is the price justified? Does it provide enough value for that price? Those are questions we asked ourselves and the community.
Finally, we analyzed an app’s user interface and its ease of use, which we placed high on our list. We believe these features should be considered for long-term planning. Solopreneurs should consider this set of criteria before paying for or downloading any app. An app should be easy to navigate and use, with clearly explained features. If an app is overly complicated, frustration will grow quickly.
Overall, it’s worth devoting some research time prior to making app decisions. After all, this process is all about streamlining and becoming even more productive. When solopreneurs run their businesses online, efficient communication and collaboration are key. In the same way, as many industries have grown, the apps have also evolved. We’ve made the selection of the best apps in the following categories:
Communication Apps
Communication is key! That sentence is heard everywhere and all the time. Effective communication is crucial when dealing with clients or people you choose to work with. There are several apps that help solopreneurs stay connected.
Slack
The messaging and collaboration app allows solopreneurs to communicate with everyone in real time. The app also supports file sharing and integrates well with other tools. Slack is a powerful communication platform.
In Slack Connect, you can safely work with customers. All the add-ins make it a one-stop app, and it shows that Slack was one of the first to combine communication for groups and one-on-one. The UI is extremely attractive and lets users navigate easily. Does it live up to all the hype? She’s A Given says YES.
Slack is perfect for streamlined communication as it provides a centralized platform. No more cluttered inboxes! Slack also helps to share files, get notifications and, of course, stay organized. It also has great customization features that will suit most solopreneurs’ preferences. Furthermore, you can take Slack on the go; its mobile app is superb. Never miss another chance to get stuff done while traveling. Another major plus for Slack: It offers plenty for free which might be enough for individuals.
Zoom
Zoom is an unbelievable success story. It has almost become synonymous with the current era we live in. It’s also a brand name that has turned into a verb synonymous with videoconferencing. For those still unfamiliar, Zoom is a videoconferencing platform that gained global fame during the pandemic. But, putting aside the fame, why is Zoom so popular?
Firstly, due to its simplicity. Zoom’s UI is exceptional. It lets you join a meeting instantly or start one. Zoom offers high-quality sound and visuals, which are essential for doing business through an online platform. Hence, professionality is guaranteed. We like a video call to be stable and clear. It allows for easy app integration and uses end-to-end encryption to secure every single call. You need to collaborate with people? Zoom allows teams to share files and even record calls and share a screen. A feature She’s A Given likes? Virtual backgrounds. Since solopreneurs need to be able to work from anywhere, video conferencing should look professional, and Zoom provides ample solutions.
The Basic plan is the free gateway into the world of videoconferencing. Several plans are available for more complex needs and larger service options, including add-ons. It’s hard to imagine a world without Zoom.
Project Management Apps
Asana
Asana goes beyond communication. It’s a full-blown project management software that enables teams to manage tasks and projects in collaboration. It offers features like task assignments, deadlines, timelines, and of course, team communication. It’s also super easy to track project progress. Solopreneurs can profit greatly from using Asana. Why does She’s A Given recommend it?
Asana allows solopreneurs to manage different tasks and clients effectively by breaking down everything into sub-tasks. That makes for optimal and efficient task management. Solopreneurs can prioritize their work, stay organized and make sure that all tasks are getting done in the set time. Much like other communication tools, Asana enables collaboration with clients and team members in real-time. Automating some tasks helps to save time—big time. No need to keep track of everything. Automated notifications and reminders are here to assist. Another benefit? Customization in templates so that everything will align with your tasks.
Asana offers a variety of pricing plans to suit different needs and budgets. Much like with other apps, the basic version is free to use.
Monday.com
When seeking a project management app that allows a team to collaborate and manage their work, Monday.com is high on our list. Depending on the specific needs and preferences of each user, Monday.com is highly customizable. Hence, you can tailor your workspace to your liking. It’s very adaptable, so you can combine it with other apps you are using. Task assignments, progress tracking, and communication tools help solopreneurs stay on top of things and be productive. It feels very satisfying when you can check a completed task. The visual representation never feels cluttered but remains professional and organized. She’s A Given recommends Monday.com for small and larger projects, as management is important regardless of scope. Like with all the other apps, there is a free trial to jumpstart your efforts to become more organized and efficient.
Personal Assistance, Calendar, and Scheduling Apps
Calendly
Chances are high you have received a Calendly link to open slots in a calendar. It’s very simple to select an available appointment on the app, so the scheduling tool is in high demand. For solopreneurs, you can share your availability with your clients and let them book a meeting with you. This is so much easier than going back and forth with several emails. The tool itself boosts high flexibility in choosing different meeting options, and it automatically adjusts for different time zones. At She’s A Given, we love how professional Calendly appears, as it streamlines our scheduling process and reduces errors. Calendly helps save time by reducing scheduling conflicts and also increases productivity. Calendly states that one calendar connection is “forever free,” with more connections available at a price. We’re a fan of Calendly, and we know you will be, too.
Evernote
This is the type of app that makes you want to be more organized. The popular note-taking and organization app stands out from its competition with its adaptability and cross-platform compatibility. The best feature: Its actual note-taking. The Evernote app allows users to take notes in different formats, which includes regular text but also auditory and via images and clippings from online sources. Depending on what type of note-taker you are, you can easily organize all kinds of information efficiently. Tags and search functions then allow for easy arranging. Evernote can be integrated with other apps, and it offers strong security so that you can use it for your clients as a solopreneur.
Grammarly
This writing assistant app is hugely popular as it not only takes care of grammar issues in your text but also improves overall clarity and effectiveness. It checks your grammar and spelling mistakes and suggests improvements in style and tone. Grammarly is the perfect app to ensure all client communication is top-notch and without error. It’s super easy to use and can be adjusted for different writing formats or styles. You can add it to your web browser so everything you write in an open tab (see: Google Docs) will be checked. The same goes for integrating into the other apps. Grammarly will follow you wherever you go. Hence, you can improve the professionalism of your written communication, and you can actually learn from your mistakes. The premium subscription for individual users is well worth the price.
CRM Apps
There are many CRM (Customer Relationship Management) apps available for solopreneurs, each with its own unique features and benefits. As a solopreneur, is there anything more important than customer relations? Since you are the only person in your company, everything depends on you. Good apps will facilitate your CRM. Here are some of the best CRM apps for solopreneurs:
HubSpot
This popular app is a comprehensive solution for solopreneurs. And it offers a free CRM that includes great features such as contact management, deal tracking, and of course, anything related to leads.
This is lead-tastic for solopreneurs who have a tight budget. If your venture grows, there are premium program options such as the Sales Hub and the Marketing Hub, among others. Overall, HubSpot is an excellent choice for solopreneurs if you are looking for a one-stop platform. It provides a complete CRM and plenty of marketing automation features.
The free CRM and dashboards that are customizable make it very affordable. So, it’s smart to get HubSpot, especially if you are starting out. The app is easy to use, and you can learn about all processes quickly. It also integrates well with other apps, so you won’t be cluttered with app disruptions. She’s A Given gives it two thumbs up.
Zoho
Zoho offers an excellent CRM, and She’s A Given is all for it. The Zoho CRM is a cloud-based platform with top features that will make a solopreneur’s day a bit easier. Want to know the benefits? It’s about customization and a sweeping package deal. First, the interface is customizable, and we are a fan of that.
The Zoho CRM allows solopreneurs to make everything fit their specific needs. It also offers sales and marketing automation. The tool satisfies in helping to save time and increase efficiency. We like apps that integrate well with other apps, and Zoho does that well. Solopreneurs need to be able to streamline their work effectively, so having lots of different apps must work in conjunction.
Solopreneurs need to make decisions, and features like data-driven analytics and reporting are valuable support. And did we say mobile? Like with the other apps we have recommended, you can take Zoho on the go, so you’ll always have access to your CRM data. And one last thing: Affordability. The Zoho CRM offers various pricing options, even a free one.
Miscellaneous Apps
Forest
Forest is a productivity app with one target: Help users stay focused and stay off their phones. The app does that by planting virtual trees that grow over time as you work. What’s the hardest part of working from home? Distractions.
And a big one is the personal phone that often serves as a professional phone too. So how does tree-planting work, and why should you use it? Well, it’s simple: It’s quite genius since who wants to see a tree die? Exactly. You choose a task that you need to focus on, you then start the timer, and the app plants a tree. It will start growing, but you can’t exit the app during this phase; otherwise, your tree will wither. When the timer is up, you can move to the next task and the next tree.
Hopefully, you’ll soon grow a forest. Forest is a visual aid to keep you focused. The app also teams up with real-life tree-planting organizations for special features. It’s fun, and it’s effective.
Focus@Will
Another app with a simple premise: “Tune out distractions.” Major plus? It’s scientifically proven. We won’t go into detail here, but it’s neuroscience, meaning specifically designed music tracks will enhance focus and concentration. It’s a great app for those who want some background music while working.
Since the music is specifically engineered, you won’t get too distracted by the occasional dance breaks. But what’s wrong with dancing out to Taylor Swift’s newest tunes? Maybe you will recharge before getting back to business. And as a solopreneur, you need to continuously recharge.
Google and Apple
We love all the apps above, and we also love Google and Apple apps. So, a list of the best apps wouldn’t be complete without a few from each source.
Depending on the operating system or phone, one might already use all kinds of different apps personally. Both Google and Apple offer a wide range of apps that can be useful for solopreneurs while working remotely.
Google boosts Google Drive for storing and sharing files, Google Docs, Google Sheets, and Google Slides for creating and editing documents, Google Meet for video conferencing, and of course, Google Calendar to keep track of your meetings.
Apple offers iCloud Drive, Pages, Numbers, and Keynote for presentations. FaceTime connects you to virtual meetings, and Calendar lets you schedule those. Both companies can serve as a good baseline for apps that are free to use. Moreover, you can always add, substitute and enhance others on top of those.
