Our PI Education operations manager and PM marketing guru keeps it old school and new school, and she schools us daily on the best tools for business processes.
I don’t do investigative work much anymore since I am swamped as the Director of Operations at PI Education. But I still maintain my private investigator license under the leadership and support of my colleague and friend, Greg Sievers, at Gulf Coast PI.
1. Paper Planners and Notepads
I am a total nerd and I love my Passion Planner. Even with all the fantastic technology out there, I still consistently use a paper calendar system in my office. I find myself to be more organized and motivated when I write it down and have the planner in front of me each day.
I also keep an excessive number of notepads around the office and in my vehicle. I am a sucker for softcover journals and a good pen.
2. I Love My Digital Camera
Every investigator should have a reliable digital camera (especially while on surveillance). I documented a lot of evidence in my career with my Nikon D3400. Even though I bought my camera as a starter, it has become my favorite. Quality photos, long battery life, and ISO management are impressive.
This gets the job done for professional clandestine photography and personal photography!
3. Canva
Canva is an easy to use graphic design platform. I use it to create ads, product graphics, social media posts, business cards, and website graphics (like the one at the top of this article). They have a decent free version of the app and an affordable paid subscription.
The coolest thing is YOU are the designer! It is super easy to use for all your marketing needs. Also, it’s fun!
Greg, the owner of Gulf Coast PI, wanted me to add that his PI agency is successful because his most valuable tools/assets are:
- Developing great relationships
- Doing good, consistent work
- Being ETHICAL and professional, always!
I agree wholeheartedly with Greg!
About the author:
Stephanie Mitchell is the operations manager at Storyboard EMP, LLC. She assists in the daily operations of our education entity, PI Education. Stephanie has 22 years of combined experience as a manager, a private investigator and paralegal. During her leisure time, she is devoted to her family and her dogs. She plays soccer, enjoys the outdoors, kayaking, hiking, and exploring.