What Is a CRM and Why Do You Need One?
Robyn Hatfield ??
Marketing Operations & Automation | 2x Adobe Marketo Champion | 2x Marketo Certified Solutions Architect | 3x Marketo Certified Expert | Certified Salesforce Admin | Austin Marketo User Group Leader | Lifecycle Marketer
What is a CRM?
As defined by Salesforce (a leading CRM company), a CRM or Customer Relationship Management tool is a technology for managing all your company’s relationships and interactions with customers and potential customers.
Why Should a Company Implement a CRM?
We all know that business is about relationships. A CRM tool allows you to do a better job of keeping track of the customer relationship. This allows you to do a better job following up, providing value, and getting future sales and referrals.
Types of CRM Tools
Just as there are many different types of businesses, there are many different types of CRM systems. The larger the company, the larger the database capacity and complexity. The cost of the CRM is directly related to this. Below are a few examples of different CRM systems:
- Salesforce
- SugarCRM
- Vtiger
- Insightly
- InfusionSoft
- ActiveCampaign
- Zoho
How Do You Know What CRM Is Right For You?
With so many different CRM systems out there, it’s hard to determine the best one for you.
Here are some basic questions you should ask before buying a CRM system:
What is your business goal?
You need to have your WHY before you look to buy your CRM. Are you looking to increase repeat business? Increase customer service? Increase referrals?
What is the cost?
What is the cost of the system? The more complex and the more functionality, expect a higher cost. Is this cost justified by your goal (above)?
Ease of Use?
How easy is it to use the system? I have seen companies implement an expansive CRM system to then never use it. Make sure that the CRM system can be used by the people that are going to be using it.
Who Will Implement the CRM?
The CRM system needs to be implemented. This includes setting up the custom fields, uploading contacts, segmenting lists, setting up users and more. You need to know who will be implementing this. If it’s your company, do you have someone on your staff with the expertise and the time to do it?
Support and Training?
Who will be supporting the CRM and who will be training your employees? This is key to making sure the CRM is being used effectively and consistently.
Do you need help with determining what CRM is right for you? We can help! We offer customized solutions for you. Sign up for a phone FREE consultation for help with CRM selection. >>Click HERE<<