5 Reasons Why Your Business Needs CRM Software

Does your business have any Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software? Perhaps you think your business is too small to use a CRM, or that they’re too complicated and expensive. If this sounds familiar, then keep reading, as I will take you through the five reasons why your business needs a CRM.

What is CRM?

CRM software can be as simple or as complex as you need them to be, depending on the size and budget of your business. But it’s basically a way of storing client information, sales leads, tracking sales conversions, workflows, conversations etc., all in one place. Years ago, CRM was basically an Excel spreadsheet with phone numbers and email addresses, but tech has moved on and they are now powerful systems that integrate into business and can streamline, automate and securely store your customer and sales data.

5 Reasons Why Your Business Needs CRM Software

If you’re still sceptical about the need for CRM software in your business, then hopefully my list below will help:

1. Centralised Information Storage – if there’s more than one of you working in the business, how do you ensure timely, up-to-date information about customers is available to staff when they need it. A CRM system stores contact details, sales data and conversations against each client’s record, which is easily accessible to those within your organisation that need the information.
2. Tracking Sales Leads – CRM systems are an excellent way to track and monitor sales leads. You can also send out and store quote information. Some CRM software will also provide you with an overview of the sales pipeline allowing you to monitor and manage your sales prospects.
3. Integrating and automating business processes – some CRM packages have the capacity to automate processes within your organisation using automated workflows. This means certain processes like sending standard emails, forms, and invoices, can be sent automatically depending on the triggers set up, saving you time.
4. Client Management – Client retention is big business. It’s tough enough winning clients, so the last thing you want to do is lose them due to poor customer service. Because CRM systems store all client sales information you have access to sales data which will enable you to better understand customer behaviour, purchase patterns and preferred communication channels. Building on this information means you can not only retain customers but you will also be able to attract new customers.
5. Data – data is powerful, and your CRM system will contain a lot of valuable sales data. Analysing it will allow you to spot trends, reward loyal customers, increase customer retention, upsell, gain customer insight, understand the customer journey, optimise your sales process, and inform marketing decisions and campaigns.

I’ve given you some impressive benefits to implementing CRM software within your organisation. But to achieve these outcomes, it’s essential to choose the right one - don’t select a CRM because you think it will fit or because it’s free (although HubSpot CRM is an excellent free option and a good place to start). Instead, get a clear idea of your business needs and current processes. What and how do you want to improve? Next is to think about your budget. This is important because CRM software varies hugely in price, depending on features and the number of users. And consider this - do you need ongoing technical support and training?

The right CRM system used in the right way can dramatically improve your customer service and retention, help you organise and streamline work processes, increase productivity, become a powerful central hub of sales data and help you manage your sales pipeline. This in turn increases productivity and growth, which ultimately helps you increase sales and profits. Just remember; it’s important to do your research and think about your budget, don’t choose the first one you come across.

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