Technology helps small businesses streamline their operations and communications, increasing efficiency and fueling growth. T-Mobile has long been working with small businesses in this area, providing expert advice and solutions to help them leverage their technology solutions as effectively as possible.
At the 2024 CO-100 Small Business Forum, U.S. Chamber of Commerce Vice President and Editor-in-Chief Kristen DelGuzzi sat down for a fireside chat with Bill Brittingham, Director of SMB Sales at T-Mobile. They discussed emerging trends in wireless connectivity and T-Mobile’s role in supporting small businesses through technology.
T-Mobile’s commitment to supporting small businesses
In his work at T-Mobile, Brittingham and his team have worked closely with small businesses in the Mid-Atlantic region.
“I love the entrepreneurial spirit of the small business,” he said. “There’s just something special about working with people who have that grit, that drive, that determination.”
These admirable qualities are crucial to success as a small business owner, which often requires multiple roles.
“You’re not just the CEO; you are the CFO, you are the CCO, you are the CMO and you are a CIO,” Brittingham emphasized. “We [at T-Mobile] look to possibly help you with that CIO [role, and] Be the trusted advisor for your business that you can rely on.”
Although T-Mobile is best known for its wireless devices, the company also provides other technology products and services to support small businesses. These include everything from cybersecurity products to mobile device management to software licensing, as well as the support to implement them successfully.
“It’s really about getting that advantage, using technology and helping you… perform better in your business,” Brittingham said.
It’s really about giving you that advantage, using technology and helping you… perform better in your business.
Bill Brittingham, Director of SMB Sales, T-Mobile
The shift to wireless connectivity for small businesses
More and more of today’s consumers rely solely on wireless devices rather than landline telephones. Brittingham has seen a similar trend in the business world.
He described this shift from wired to wireless connectivity as “the new frontier” for carriers like T-Mobile as they help customers replace or supplement their wireline operations.
Brittingham gave the example of a construction company with employees who travel to different work locations. Having a wireless router can help these workers access projects on their devices while they are on the go.
“There [are] just so many different ways to connect and see success with it,” he added.
Wireless connectivity also expands the possibilities for point-of-sale (PoS) solutions. Retailers can use wireless credit card processors to process transactions without a wired connection, whether at a farmers market or a physical location.
In addition to supporting businesses in the shift to wireless, Brittingham noted that T-Mobile continues to expand its 5G network, especially into rural markets.
[Read more: Emerging Small Business Technology Trends]
The future of wireless: satellite-based connectivity
Looking to the future, T-Mobile continues to look for ways to advance wireless connectivity across the country, especially in more remote locations. The company recently teamed up with Elon Musk and SpaceX to develop satellite-based wireless connectivity.
“It’s actually happening now: the FCC just approved part of this partnership to enable some connectivity in North Carolina right now [after Hurricane Helene]” said Brittingham.
This, he explained, means wireless devices can send and receive messages even without a wireless network in place.
“I think over time… you’ll be able to go to a mountain top or in the middle of the ocean, and have connectivity on your device,” Brittingham added.
CO— strives to bring you inspiration from leading respected experts. However, before making any business decision, you should consult a professional who can advise you based on your individual situation.
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