3 online tools to grow your rural business

(NC) Whether you’re a mom-and-pop-shop or starting your digital business empire, the internet has become the best resource for your business, regardless of your location. Social media, online stores and other communication tools can connect you to virtually everyone, from the family down the street to clients on the other side of the world.
The challenge has been that high-speed internet isn’t available in rural areas, but that is beginning to change. Companies like Xplornet Communications are expanding their high-speed network, and this means your business can get online with faster and more reliable internet connections.
Make the most of your new connectivity with online tools that help you build your online business and engage with your customers.
1. Skype. This online video chat and voice call service puts you face-to-face with your customers. It is a great way to collaborate or close a deal. Do you have a customer in another city? If you have a good high-speed internet connection, try having a video call with them — you’ll be amazed how interesting the conversation becomes.
2. Facebook Live. We all know about Facebook, but Facebook Live is still new to many. This new feature allows you to broadcast a real-time video using only your phone, tablet or laptop. It also allows your audience to give you immediate feedback. People love watching video, so use this platform to share news about your business and expand the conversation around it.
3. Shopify. Have you been putting off creating an online store? Many people don’t ever do this because they are intimidated by the task. But those days are over with services like Shopify, which makes it easy to create an online store for both newcomers and digital pros alike. Once you are set up, you can select a template for your site, manage your inventory and link everything to your bricks-and-mortar store.
Find more information at www.xplornet.com.