6 Smartphone Apps for Busy CEOs
If you are like most executives, time is as precious a commodity as any. Therefore, any alternative which provides an opportunity for increased efficiency is one you will seriously consider; and in this age of rapidly advancing technology, there are numerous viable options to help you get organized, and remain that way, quickly and easily.
Most individuals have become reliant on the expedience of data and ease of connectivity that Smartphones offer, and CEOs are no exception. Actually, not having access to a device with a virtual world of information at your fingertips would seem unusual in today’s world, and this is definitely not a bad thing. In many cases, Smartphones have readily replaced PCs, laptops, and surprisingly enough, even many tablet devices. It is safe to say that our productivity levels, both in and out of the corporate world, have certainly been enhanced; and much of this increase in efficiency can be attributed directly, and specifically, to downloadable Smartphone apps.
We’ve researched some of the best professional apps, available through both the “App Store” and “Google Play”, to help even the busiest CEO save time and get organized.
1. Slack
Don’t let the name of this highly recommended communication organizer fool you. This particular app is extremely beneficial for systemizing and sorting out your inbox messages and files into one central location. Users can create networks or “channels” where they can discuss particular topics with different groups of contacts. Its synchronization option allows you to coordinate with your computer, incorporating other frequently used apps, such as Google Hangout and Dropbox, for example.
2. Evernote
Most busy professionals rarely have the opportunity to pause their schedule long enough to securely record important ideas, outlines, lists, or even contact information. Evernote is a popular and extremely useful app that helps you avoid the endless array of paper slips and sticky notes that seem to accumulate on your desk. In other words, this app allows you to save and stockpile important information or even “clippings” from Evernote’s internet feature. Moreover, the app allows you to easily share your notes with coworkers through social media or email. If you choose to opt for the premium version, you will have the ability to combine what you’ve stored into a one-step presentation for future use. You can also scan your colleagues’ business cards, and automatically attach them to your contact list.
3. Contactually
One of the worst things an executive or CEO can experience is losing the contact information of a vital colleague or associate. Even if the contact is of more casual importance, there is always the possibility you will want to connect with the individual in the future, so keeping an organized and thorough network list is crucial. With Contactually, your connections never slip away because this contact management app combines all contacts from within your Smartphone, social media networks, and email, allowing you to sort them into orderly groups based upon significance and importance, while setting reminders for each one. These reminders will help you to remain in contact with important members of your network according to your chosen schedule, providing you with all of their immediate profile information.
4. Expensify
This account management app transforms the tedious chore of expense reporting into something much more manageable for you and your employees. Simply snap a screen shot of your receipts and expense information. Then generate, submit and authorize expense reports from the convenience of your Smartphone, rather than carting around paper documents to be sorted through later. Expensify also allows you to work offline, track time and mileage (via manual entry or GPS), and handle travel plans (with flight updates in real-time).
5. LinkedIn
Of course, you’re familiar with the most popular and highly regarded professional social media website on the internet, but did you know it is also a free downloadable app? Even if you have an impeccable LinkedIn profile, your presence is really only as effective as how active you are, whether through consistent networking or influential postings and status updates. As a busy executive, you are more apt to correspond with your LinkedIn connections if they are available to you through a convenient Smartphone app, rather than setting aside time at your laptop or PC. The LinkedIn app allows you to recruit talent and stay up-to-date on current industry news from literally anywhere.
6. TripIt
If you are a CEO or C-level executive, you know that travel plans are a given at one point or another. TripIt is a time-tested app that gives you total control over your travel arrangements, erasing a great deal of the confusion and stress that often accompany setting up a long-distance journey. You merely forward all of your travel booking information (plane tickets, rental cars, hotels, reservations) to TripIt’s approved email ID. The app will then combine all of your paper documentation into one simple schedule or trip itinerary. TripIt will even forward you automatic notifications and updates regarding flight schedule changes, helping you reroute flights, select the best plane seats, and even locate you for cancelation refunds.
Summary
CEOs and executives who stay current and open to developing technology will continue to remain the forerunners in the corporate world. Recognizing, researching, and choosing professional tools that will help your business run more smoothly has proven beneficial to both established and growing companies by assisting, organizing, and reducing the workloads and stress levels of the very individuals who make it all possible.
Stewart, Cooper & Coon, has helped thousands of decision makers and senior executives move up in their careers and achieve significantly improved financial packages within short time frames. Contact Fred Coon – 866-883-4200, Ext. 200