Some benefits to using a CRM
1. Improved Customer Relationships
CRM systems allow SMEs to track and analyse customer interactions, enabling personalised communication sometimes without the intervention of a human meaning that SME’s can build stronger relationships and increase customer satisfaction without a dedicated Sales team. Once you are in a financial position to grow, having your customer data centralised in your CRM can enhance any efforts your Sales or Service Team provide. Of course because of my love of software and my dislike of data entry I would assume that the CRM would then help in any financial transactions that result from the CRM so for me it is a must that it integrates with your Accounting System allowing the best of both worlds. Separation of the Sales team and the Finance team and also collaboration.2. Enhanced Sales Management
CRM software helps manage leads from the first point of contact to conversion. This ensures that no potential sales opportunity is lost. CRMs provide tools for tracking sales pipelines, making it easier to forecast future sales and plan accordingly.3. Increased Efficiency
CRM systems can automate or allow “bulking” of repetitive tasks like data entry, follow-up reminders, and email marketing, freeing up time for more strategic activities and we all know how precious time is for small business people.4. Better Marketing Efforts
CRMs can segment customers based on various criteria such as purchase history or behaviour, allowing for more targeted and effective marketing campaigns and then also track how successful those campaigns have been. For example at LDG we “tag” where the leads are coming from and this financial year social media is working better than networking. So I either need to work on my networking or throw some decent time at my socials.5. Competitive Advantage
Does your competitor use a CRM? Hopefully not so you can and have a slight edge on them. If your competitors do your use of a CRM might just aid you in working out your “niche” still keeping you ahead of the pack.6. Cost-Effective Growth
Your CRM should be allowing you to (or your Team) to do what you do for 10 customers in almost the same time as you spend on 1 customer. Sales is a numbers game so your CRM should be helping you gain numbers.7. Improved Team Collaboration
As mentioned above the beauty of CRM’s is they are customizable so you can allow your Team as much (or as little information) the needs of your customers.
So now I have convinced you need a CRM which one do you pick? Have a quick look at the list below as a guide to your research.
1. Zoho CRM
Overview: Zoho CRM offers a robust set of tools for managing customer relationships, sales, and marketing. It's popular among small businesses for its affordability and ease of use.
Features:
- Lead and contact management
- Workflow automation
- Email marketing
- Reporting and analytics
Pricing: Offers a free plan for up to three users, with paid plans starting from AUD $18/user/month.
Integrations: Zoho (yes it does some bookkeeping as well), Xero, QBO and MYOB
2. HubSpot CRM
Overview: HubSpot CRM is a widely used platform known for its user-friendly interface and comprehensive free plan, making it ideal for small businesses just starting out.
Features:
- Lead and pipeline management
- Email tracking and notifications
- Live chat and chatbots
- Reporting dashboards
Pricing: Free plan available with premium plans starting from AUD $50/month.
Integrations: Xero, QBO and MYOB
3. Salesforce Essentials
Overview: Salesforce is a leading CRM provider globally. Salesforce Essentials is their offering tailored for small businesses, combining powerful features with scalability.
Features:
- Contact and account management
- Sales tracking and reporting
- Email integration
- Customizable dashboards
Pricing: Starts at AUD $35/user/month.
Integrations: Xero, QBO and MYOB
4. ActiveCampaign
Overview: ActiveCampaign combines CRM with email marketing automation, making it suitable for SMEs focusing on both customer relationship management and digital marketing.
Features:
- Email marketing automation
- Sales automation
- Customer segmentation
- Reporting and analytics
Pricing: Plans start at AUD $15/month for the basic features.
Integrations: Xero, Zoho Books
5. Pipedrive
Overview: Pipedrive is a sales-focused CRM that is designed to help businesses manage their sales pipeline effectively.
Features:
- Visual sales pipeline
- Email integration
- Activity reminders
- Reporting and analytics
Pricing: Starts at AUD $21/user/month.
Integrations: QBO and Xero
6. Insightly
Overview: Insightly is a CRM designed for SMEs, offering project management capabilities alongside CRM functions, making it ideal for businesses that manage both customer relationships and projects.
Features:
- Contact and lead management
- Project management tools
- Workflow automation
- Email integration
Pricing: Starts at AUD $45/user/month.
Integrations: Xero, QBO and MYOB
As always LDG strives to Learn, Develop and Grow so the CRM puzzle is as important to us as it is to you. Likewise our software agnosticism means we are happy to be shown the path to growth if pointed towards it so please use this article to spark at least a conversation with us.
