Today numerous CRM programs abound on the market and each one is different from the other. There are some amazing products that can generate explosive business growth, but then there are systems that are so difficult to use and enforce that they could spell financial ruin for your business. And it is not easy to know which is which. Most of the time, businessmen get carried away by smart talking salespeople who don’t give a damn about the demands of their business and end up with CRM software that is not appropriate for the size of their business, lacking of functions, has adoption problems or plain and simple. it is not tailored to the needs of your business. But simply knowing these everyday obstacles instantly can help you prevent problems.
Business people go into business to make money, so the main function of a CRM system would be to help you make a profit. A return on investment or ROI would normally be the goal of most SMEs (small and medium-sized businesses). A CRM software that is capable of sustaining you throughout the process and one that has the ability to grow with the company is another issue to consider. By employing the following practices, you should be able to achieve your goals without falling into any software pitfalls:
1. Stick to the business model Be clear about your company’s identity, sales practices, and overall strategy. And don’t be swooned with all the fancy features you see. CRM software must be evaluated according to the commercial strategy as well as the demands of your sales team in meeting your objectives. Consider inviting your top salesperson or sales manager to any CRM presentation so they can help you interpret which CRM will improve your performance and which tools can be a costly distraction. Your overall business plan shouldn’t change in any way just because of your new CRM tool.
2. Beware of rigid CRM software Even start-ups need a flexible CRM solution that grows with them and their clientele. For example, stay away from systems that make it difficult to scale up and down; When business is doing well, you should be able to bring in the resources to ride that wave, but when your market is calm, reducing software costs should be as painless as possible. A versatile CRM software should be a business tool with functionalities that adapt to your demands and do not hinder you with its limitations.
3. Select an easy-to-use CRM software Not all simple products are mediocre. Employees tend to adopt software with an easy-to-understand user interface because they are easier to use. Having an online CRM (which is similar to using an internet browser) is the best option, as your staff can navigate the tool with ease and confidence.
4. Choose a CRM software that requires little or no training. IT training is time consuming, an additional expense, and in most cases your staff hates it. Many online CRM software packages are perfect as they are designed for internet browsers so anyone can get started right away with no training required. Also, choose a CRM system with integrated training courses or online webinars so your staff can improve their skills at their own pace and retain more information. Which means you also save on training fees.
5. Highlight the benefits of CRM software for the team. Involving employees at all levels can accelerate the success of the CRM software that is being implemented. By engaging the team, you can show them how CRM is created to make their work life more convenient rather than something new and frustrating that they have to learn the hard way. When your staff understand the roles they are expected to perform to achieve your business goals and appreciate the need for a CRM, they will quickly adopt the new CRM solution.
6. Understanding your business needs Every business is different and has different business needs and requirements. A business needs to truly understand its needs in order to select the best CRM system that fits its budget, its customers, and its corporate structure.
Choosing from a wide range of CRM tools can be difficult, but keeping in mind what you really need and want will save you from falling into these common CRM traps.
