CRM stands for Customer Relationship Management. Not too long ago, using CRM software only made sense for large enterprises due to cost, but that’s no longer the case, says Sue Smythe, co-owner of CMIT Solutions in Everett.
Even if you have a sales force of one, a CRM tracking tool offers several benefits, typically at a very reasonable price. In addition to managing sales, CRM software has applications for customer service. Providers of CRM software include Salesforce.com, SugarCRM, ACT and Microsoft Dynamics, among others.
Consider using CRM software if you want to:
• Organize and manage your sales process efficiently (instead of having it all in your head);
• Get more out of your existing leads (instead of forgetting to make that follow-up call);
• Stay on the same page with team members (instead of passing an Excel spreadsheet around);
• Better forecast and plan (instead of thinking, “Where did that sticky note go?”); and
• Create a sales process that’s repeatable (instead of only one person having the formula).
All of us could better use technology to grow our business, Smythe says. Many of us could enhance our sales techniques, as well, so join Lisa Earle McLeod, author of “Triangle of Truth,” for a free one-hour webinar on Selling for Small Business Owners. The webinar takes place at 11 a.m., Thursday, Feb. 24. She’ll discuss all aspects of selling, from sales calls to sales management to choosing and using the right CRM software to boost efficiency and profits. Click here to register.
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