Best Business Tools – #2 Skype

In today’s connected world it’s not unusual to find customers outside your home base.  They may be in another state or in another country.  Connecting with them has become a top priority, especially for new businesses lacking cash flow to spend on technology.

Skype bridges the gap and provides not only a great service, but one that’s also free.

Here is a list of ways I use Skype for business:

1. Talk to clients
   Some clients prefer using Skype.  Even though I call my clients and pay the tab, many people have dropped their landines.  That means spending an hour or more with me on their cell phones.  Skype-to-Skype is a free call, anywhere in the world.
2. Talk to my wife and kids
   When I travel it’s easy to pick up the cell phone, but nothing beats seeing them on video.
3. Connecting with business partners
   I usually have Skype open when my computer is on.  This is a great way to stay connected to people I do business with.  We don’t get stuck on a long phone call and it beats waiting for an email response.  It’s usually immediate.
4. Radio interviews
   So far, 100% of the Guests I’ve brought on the show at Coach Radio have been via Skype.  People often remark that it sounds like my guest is in my studio.
5. Birthday reminders
   Don’t laugh.  I’ve been notified when I otherwise wouldn’t have know that it’s one of my connection’s birthday.  I’ll drop them an email, tweet, facebook message or email when no one else does.  Listing your birthdate is optional.
6. Sharing documents
   Skype handles the sharing of documents that are sometimes too big to even email.
7. Conference calls
   I’ve been on calls with up to five other people with no issues.  By the way, the audio quality on Skype blows away that of a traditional phone line.
8. Recorded video interviews
   Andy Traub recorded this side-by-side video as a promo for an upcoming Free Agent Academy event.  To record, use ecamm and check out my friend David’s great post on ecamm settings.
9. Phone calls on the road
   I’ve thought about this but I’m not quite there yet.  Skype allows you to Skype-out, meaning you can call any phone number  in the world, for a very low price.  Unlimited to the US and Canada is just $3 / month.  This is the first use here that isn’t free.

To get started with Skype, download and install it.  Choose your screen name, complete your profile and make your first call or chat.

How do you use Skype?  Did I miss it here?

More of the Best Business Tools