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Once youve understood these, it will become a lot easier to work out thebest CRM softwarefor your needs.
As with all business software, misconceptions are rife.
Just take a look at some of thebest cloud storage solutionson the market.
Thats why we feel that its important to clearly outline the falsehoods that continue to hold back CRM adoption.
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5 powerful myths about CRM
Myth 1.
All CRMs are the same
This one couldnt be more wrong.
Just taking a look across industries there are real variations in the types of CRM on offer.
There are thebest CRMs for real estatefirms, thebest insurance CRMs, and many more.
Some of our highest-rated CRMs, includeSalesforce,HubSpot, andZoho.
But the only way to be sure that a CRM meets your needs is to conduct some first-hand research.
Many platforms offer free trial periods so thats a great way to try multiple different CRM tools before committing.
One of the primary ways that CRMs differ from one another is in terms of the features on offer.
Some common functionalities to look out for arecontact management, sales forecasting, marketing automation, and analytics.
But dont take anything for granted.
Myth 2.
CRMs are too expensive
This is the kind of myth that circulates around many business solutions.
The truth is that CRMs are available at a range of prices.
In addition, check the customer reviews and the amount of uptime promised by the vendor.
Although this isnt a direct cost, unexpected disruptions can damage a companys takings and leave revenue streams dented.
This works both ways, however.
Consider whether your company can afford to be without a CRM.
Dont view CRM costs simply as short-term outgoings.
They could make a difference to your companys future financial sustainability.
Myth 3.
It may have once been true that CRM apps largely targeted enterprise customers.
However, digital transformation has come to all companies - large and small.
And today, CRM platforms are equally inclusive.
Even sole traders may find a CRM useful.
Myth 4.
Many boast an intuitive design as one of their main selling points.
As such, much of the functionality is self-explanatory.
Drag-and-drop features are employed where relevant and elsewhere, youll likely need to just to point and click.
Customer support options should also be available should further assistance be required.
In the same vein,AI toolsare also being incorporated to reduce the burden on staff even more.
Myth 5.
Solutions likeInsightlyare really part of a wider suite of tools, largely focusing on project management.
5 inconvenient truths about CRM
Truth 1.
Moreover, some CRM tools simply arent very good.
There are various reasons why a CRM may be inadequate.
It may lack integrations, it could be expensive or may boast a steep learning curve.
Similarly support options may be limited.
Its also worth getting some hands-on experience with the features being offered.
Do these do what theyre supposed to?
If not, it may be worth looking at other options.
Truth 2.
Perhaps its a good time to refresh ourselves regarding what a CRM actually does.
There are many other CRM features that businesses can mistakenly think will transform their operations overnight.
Truth 3.
Instead, take the time to examine what features you receive for the price.
Look at the different payment tiers available and see what free options, if any, suit your needs.
Cheaper doesnt necessarily mean worse so dont discount a CRM solution simply because its affordable.
Equally, dont be fooled by CRM platforms that boast the slickest graphics or snazziest designs.
Truth 4.
People remain key to your CRM deployment
The clue is in the name.
Customer relationship management can only be enhanced by technology so much.
Relationships are all about people at the end of the day.
So remember that alongside your new CRM deployment, staff training will remain important.
Access to this information on mobile devices will improve the customer experience and foster stronger relationships.
Truth 5.
Fortunately, many platforms boast help forums or customer support channels - whetheremail, telephone, orAI chatbot.
Make the most of these support channels if ever youre feeling a little lost.
Alternatively, you dont have to utilize formal support channels.
Start working on your customer relationships by forging tight-knit partnerships in work.
Discuss how best to use your CRM.
You never know, you might unlock a new benefit that takes your deployment to the next level.
