Tech tools today are not exclusive to large enterprises and big companies. Even small businesses can benefit from resources specifically designed to help companies to take full advantage of technology in daily operations. Take, for example, CRM or Customer Relation management software. In a nutshell, it simplifies and amplifies how your employees keep track of their sales and customer communication.
Think of a CRM system as a sophisticated address book with tools that will help improve customer service from the start of the sales process, until after products and services have been delivered. Back in the early days of CRM, only big companies had the resources to implement it. Nowadays, businesses of every size can choose from a variety of CRM options that are not only easy to use but affordable as well.
What can CRM do for you?
During the first few months of running a business, keeping track of orders through email and regular address books is sensible. But as the company grows, you also need to consider making changes that will help in adapting with the demands of a more significant operation. The problem with using spreadsheets, emails, and address books are:
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There is no consistent communication process between customers and employees
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Necessary details may get hidden in old emails
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Spreadsheets are challenging to update and sync
If critical data is spread across various systems, it is hard to leverage the information you have collected so that you can collaborate with your sales team.
Benefits of using a CRM system
Using CRM allows you to have a central location for all customer data where all employees can access a single platform for all the details they need. Some of the features of a CRM system include:
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Consolidated contact information
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Customer sales history
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Customer communication history
The sales process will also significantly improve because a CRM will automate most of the manual and repetitive tasks. Since there is a standard process that your sales team can follow, their productivity will increase, and closing sales will become much more manageable.
A CRM system also gives more insight into what your customer wants. With the data available, your sales team can determine the right opportunities and take the necessary actions to pursue these transactions. In addition to helping the sales team, the marketing department can also use the same information to come up with targeted strategies that will lead to better results.
Improved customer support
Customer service can be challenging for a growing business. If you have a CRM system, you can keep a history of previous interactions and communication with customers, which will allow your employees to respond and resolve concerns quickly. With faster response rates and resolution times, customers will appreciate the attention and importance your company is giving to their business.
In conclusion, a CRM system is only one of the many valuable tools every small business owner needs to consider using. By adding this software to your company’s suite of tech systems, you will be able to appreciate the difference it brings to many operational functions.