I don’t know about you, but I remember when “video calling” was something that only existed in science fiction.

Not to sound old here, but technology has come a long way the past few years!

Now, there are thousands of people like you and me, running businesses online and serving customers all around the world from the comfort of our own homes.

In my own business, I have found some tools to be so valuable that I can’t imagine my life without them because I use them on a weekly, if not daily, basis. If you’re not already using them too, definitely check these out and let me know your “must have tools” in the comments!

1. Loom

Install the free browser extension and you can record a video of your screen in what has to be the quickest and easiest setup I’ve ever seen. You can walk clients through a tutorial or give feedback on materials in just a few clicks.

The best part is, you don’t have to download or save the video manually. Once you are done recording Loom automatically pastes the shareable link on your clipboard. It makes it SO EASY to record and share a video – anyone can do it! Get it here.

2. Skitch

Have you ever had trouble describing WHERE on the page a button is to click? Or what in a design needs to be edited? With Skitch, you can take a screenshot and mark it up with arrows, text or highlights, like in the example below. Again, this is a free tool – get it here.

3. Speakpipe

Speakpipe allows you to record a voice memo on your computer and send someone a link to listen right in their browser. You can use this for client feedback or even to send a personalized response to a customer support inquiry. There is a free version and an inexpensive paid option depending on your needs. Learn more here.

4. Zoom

Zoom is one you might have heard of before, but it’s too good NOT to mention! I’ve been using Zoom for years now and I love it for client meetings, whether I’m working with a client 1-1 or in a small group.

I can share my screen, have clients share their screen, and there’s also a chat box. One thing that is a life saver when it comes to teaching Facebook ads is I can even request to control someone’s screen and take the wheel, so to speak, to speed things along. It saves a lot of awkward back and forth like “click the button at the top – no, not that button – to the right…”

Best of all, I can give the client permission in the app to record on their OWN computer so I don’t have to manage downloading and sharing the file. If you’re running a large group call, Zoom allows you to do breakout rooms for small groups. It works on desktop and mobile and can be used to run webinars, too! Learn more and download here.

What about you? What business tool can you not live without?