Make Your Mobile Devices Work for Business

Posted by: Today's Tip Contributor on July 27, 2011

For the first time ever, smartphone and tablet shipments beat laptop and notebook shipments in the fourth quarter of 2010. Many of the mobile devices available today can start at $400 or more, yet most people use only a fraction of the powerful business features available to them. Why not tap into all the features to get the most out of your dollar? Here are three questions to help you consider how to get more from your mobile device:

1. Do your computers, tablets, and smartphones automatically sync up? For instance, appointments, contacts, and files you add on your computer should show up on your smartphone and tablet—and vice versa.

2. Are you able to view your business calendar and schedule meetings with colleagues from all your devices?

3. On your tablet or mobile device, can you send and receive e-mail from your business e-mail account? Does it get "pushed" to you automatically, or must you log into a Web browser to download it?

These capabilities will dramatically increase everyone’s productivity within your small business, especially when on the go. Adding these business features can be done for a few dollars per month by talking to your e-mail or IT provider. If you already have a business e-mail account, you may be able to access these features for free. This way, your business will always be connected, and potential opportunities will never be missed.

Jonathan McCormick
Chief operating officer
Intermedia
New York