Top 10 Time-Saving Tools for UK Freelancers (CRM Included)

Freelancers and sole traders in the UK wear many hats—project manager, accountant, marketer, and client liaison—all at once. Without the right tools, it’s easy to spend more time on admin than actual billable work.

In this post, we’ll cover the top 10 time-saving tools that every UK freelancer should consider, including how a CRM can become the central hub for managing clients, tasks, and communications efficiently.

1. SoloCRM – Centralised Client & Task Management

A CRM like SoloCRM keeps all client information, communications, and tasks in one place. Benefits include:

• Quick access to client contact info and project history

• Automated reminders for follow-ups, deadlines, and invoices

• AI-assisted note-taking and email drafting

• GDPR-compliant storage of all data

This alone can save freelancers 5+ hours per week, freeing up time for billable work.

2. Cloud Storage Tools – Google Drive / Dropbox

Cloud storage keeps documents, contracts, and invoices safe and accessible anywhere:

• Collaborate with clients easily

• Avoid lost files from local storage

• Share documents securely

3. Accounting Software – Xero / QuickBooks

Track income, expenses, and invoices with software designed for small businesses:

• Automates bookkeeping tasks

• Generates professional invoices

• Helps stay compliant with UK tax rules

4. Communication Tools – Slack / Microsoft Teams

Stay organised when communicating with clients and collaborators:

• Keeps messages in one searchable space

• Reduces email overload

• Allows quick, clear communication

5. Time Tracking Tools – Toggl / Clockify

Track how much time you spend on each project:

• Understand billable vs non-billable hours

• Improve client reporting

• Identify areas where you can save time

6. Project Management Tools – Trello / Asana

Visual project boards help freelancers plan and prioritise tasks:

• See project progress at a glance

• Manage deadlines efficiently

• Coordinate with any contractors or collaborators

7. Password Managers – LastPass / 1Password

Secure and simplify login management:

• Generate strong, unique passwords

• Avoid wasting time recovering forgotten credentials

• Protect client accounts and personal information

8. Email Management Tools – Gmail / Spark

Organise emails efficiently:

• Label and categorise client communications

• Use templates for repetitive messages

• Schedule follow-ups automatically

9. Automation Tools – Zapier / Integromat

Connect apps and automate repetitive workflows:

• Automatically save email attachments to cloud storage

• Sync client data between apps

• Trigger reminders or notifications

10. Scheduling Tools – Calendly / Microsoft Bookings

Eliminate the back-and-forth when booking meetings:

• Clients can book time directly in your calendar

• Avoids double bookings

• Saves time coordinating availability

How to Combine These Tools Effectively

While each tool saves time individually, the biggest gains come from integration. A CRM like SoloCRM acts as the central hub:

• Store client data securely

• Track projects and deadlines

• Automate reminders

• Sync with cloud storage, email, and calendars

By combining these tools, freelancers can reclaim hours each week and run a more professional, organised business.

Conclusion: Work Smarter, Not Harder

The right tools make all the difference. They don’t just save time—they reduce stress, improve client relationships, and allow you to focus on delivering exceptional work.

For UK freelancers and sole traders, SoloCRM should be at the heart of your workflow, connecting client data, projects, and communications into one simple system.

Next Step: Try SoloCRM free today and see how a freelancer-focused CRM can save you hours each week.