How to Choose Online Tools That Actually Work for You

Just because online tools are marketed to freelancers, small businesses, or other marketers doesn't mean it will actually work for you. With so many options out there, it can be tough to find the right ones – especially if they don't live up to the hype. In this post, we'll break down how to choose online tools that will actually work for you, based on how you are wired.

This article is written from my, Gael's, perspective. You can learn more about me/my qualifications at the bottom. I hope you enjoy my nerdery and find value in exploring how you think and why that matters when it comes to using online tools.

Apple vs Android – Why Does it Matter for Online Tools?

Short version? It probably doesn’t in the big picture. However, when you are battling against a brandy new platform or tool you just bought into and you just can’t get it to work the way you want it to, this is when it matters. We are all wired a little differently. It’s what makes the world go round. But, apples and androids have a few distinct characteristics that can make or break them if they are trying to utilize online tools or platforms that aren’t compatible with the way they think.

How do I know this?

I have lots of empirical data gathered over the last decade to unequivocally prove my hypothesis. Nope. Not really. I just wanted to use “ unequivocally” in a sentence. Did you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed including it? I hope so! 😛

Ok, back to the “how do I know”. I’ve had this theory for a while, but don’t have a great scientific way to prove it. Mostly I have collections of conversations and personal experience with various clients with who I have tested this theory.

Every time without fail (as far as I can remember), when I ask Apple or Android and then ask what they like to use tool-wise, there is a definitive line. Some people can be both. After we talk a bit about why they like those online tools, there is a pattern that begins to emerge. One that can help you determine which tools are best for your brain.

What I know for sure…

Being an Apple or an Android, for the most part, does impact which online tools and platforms you are most likely to choose and ultimately enjoy using. This means that you are more likely to successfully implement tools that are aligned with the way androids and apples are developed, set up, organized, and consumed.

If you have ever sat there banging your head against the wall trying to use online tools that “should” work for you, it might not have been the best fit. Just because something works for everyone else, doesn't mean it will work for you. And that's ok!

Why does it matter?

Your success as an entrepreneur, remote worker, and professional is dependent on how effectively, efficiently, and dare I say joyfully you are able to work. Taking a few moments to identify which tools would support you best in your work are moments well spent. 

Spending some time in your local coworking space are also moments well spent. A coworking space can help provide a quiet and productive place to work, a community that wants you to succeed, and access to people who can help you be more efficient and joyful in your work.

Where do you go from here?

THE QUIZ – This is a fun, silly, yet effective quiz to help you determine if I’m right about your device of choice. Let me know how I did! After the quiz, you can check out which tools are recommended for how you are wired.

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About Gael

In addition to running/owning Connectwork on Main, I do a few things. Here is a quick run-through about me so you know who is sharing this information.

I've spent most of my adult life working with people to help them do hard things.

I provide C-Suite consulting for (usually) women-identifying owned and operated businesses that are seeking help to enhance their processes and impact, both online and offline.

I founded The Legacy Recorder in 2015 and self-published the Legacy Recorder Community Guide in 2016. My mission is to help people forge deeper, lasting connections through intergenerational storytelling. Today, my storytelling methods and project approach are recognized and utilized worldwide.

As a speaker, I've touched on a wide range of topics such as storytelling, project management, conversing with kids, branding, and death (ikr?). Over the years, I've had the privilege of presenting to organizations like ANR, SRU, PRPS, NAPO, SMWL, GSUSA, and many more.

Personally, I am a millennial mom to three incredible humans. I'm a passionate supporter of local music, coffee shops, and budding writers striving to find their voice.