In order to simplify communication with my clients, I use Google Docs. Google Docs is a free software that enables me to collaborate with my client in real-time. We can both edit the doc and each of us will see the changes.

Currently I am working with another VA, Hilary, to improve our mutual client's web content. In order to manage the content drafts, I use Google Docs to communicate with both Hilary and my client simultaneously.

I start by uploading all of my client's existing Microsoft or Mac documents to Google Docs using the easy upload button. Once I have our documents uploaded to Google Docs, I can easily share the document with Hilary through the Google Docs "share" button. (FYI - My client doesn't even need to have a Gmail account to access the Docs.)

By using my Skype account, I have an American telephone number that I use to call my client and review the document. Together, we review the shared Google Doc and make live changes in real-time.

Google Docs also enables us to track the changes we make to our documents. Instead of creating multiple versions of a document, Google Docs always keeps a live record of the changes that Hilary and my client make. If we need to review a previous version, we always have a history of the changes made.

By using Google Docs, I'm able to work virtually and seamlessly with my client, who is in California, even while I'm in Israel!

MORE ABOUT ALISON

Alison is a graduate of Mount Holyoke College and was named Gibson Morse Scholar for her outstanding leadership and academic achievement. She has worked in PR for 5 years, and her work has been published in The New York Times, The Boston Globe and Haaretz, and featured on CNN, BBC Radio, National Public Radio and other major news organizations.

During coffee with a friend and fellow business owner today, I realized there are 5 must-haves for business owners to increase market reach and efficiency:

1. Your Own Domain Name

Every time you send an email, you're advertising for yourself (if your email is personalized such as you@yourbusiness.com) or you're advertising for someone else (i.e. Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail, etc.).

Make sure to advertise for yourself by getting an email address such as: you@yourbusiness.com.

You can buy domain names through Google or GoDaddy.com.

Questions about setting up a domain name? We recommend Ivan Expert Consulting.

2. Google Apps

Google Apps is the greatest tool for small business owners. With your account, you will get email (through Gmail), calendar (through Google calendar), and documents and spreadsheets, too. Plus, you get to use your personalized email, such as you@yourbusiness.com.

Need help setting up your account? We recommend Ivan Expert Consulting.

3. Firefox

Firefox is a fabulous browser especially because it has so many free add-ons that enhance your web browsing experience.

4. Email Signature Add-Ons for FireFox

Do you want to include your photo, colorful text, or different fonts in your Gmail email signature? Well now you can using one of these add-ons (Black Canvas or WiseStamp) for Firefox.

5. PhoneTag.com

The best time saver for a business owner is to have your voicemail transcribed and emailed or texted to you.

PhoneTag.com is a great software program that does this with a fairly high accuracy rate. It's much more fun to read voicemail than to listen to it!

MORE ABOUT SARAH LEAH

Sarah Leah is the founder of Secretary in Israel, which she has been running since January 2008. Prior to starting Secretary in Israel, Sarah Leah worked in marketing and had also founded a nonprofit. Sarah Leah currently resides in Jerusalem.