How to Plan a Customer Relationship Management Strategy (and Why You Need One)

Let’s begin by defining what a CRM strategy really is, which will help to illustrate why it matters.

The Concept of a CRM Strategy

Using CRM software has a pretty low bar for entry. Basically, you just have to procure it and populate it with the data you have collected. The purpose of a CRM strategy is to really use your solution to the fullest extent that you can, which allows you to optimize your outcomes.

There are a few ways that your CRM strategy can enable you to do so:

• It condenses data in context to help you reference it as you make decisions and set goals.
• It makes customer service efforts more comprehensive, which can boost retention and loyalty.
• It assists you in making sales by scaling your process properly and eliminating redundancy.

Naturally, these are benefits that can assist any business in its pursuit of its goals, so it is important that you create a proper CRM strategy to guide you. Here is a simple process for you to follow:

1. Understand Your Goals and Strategize For Them
   What is it, exactly, that you want your business to accomplish? What is your intended use of your CRM software, and what do you want to achieve with it? How will each department use it to do strive toward their goals? How will your offering be distributed?

   Once you have conferred with your team and answered these questions, it is time to consider the business landscape and who your ideal clients are. Then, determine what makes your offer different, and commit to providing this difference each time in the way that best suits your prospects.

2. Analyze and Organize Your Team
   How will the introduction of your new CRM software impact your team? Speak with those whose job responsibilities will be affected by your new solution, and look for any past experience with such platforms for their impression of different options.

   You will also need to identify those team members who will be using the software to collaborate and be sure that everyone understands their particular roles. It is also helpful to determine the goals that each department should strive toward, and identify the key performance indicators that will help measure their progress.

3. Implementing Your New Solution and Strategy
   Determine how different contacts will be divided within your CRM, and establish a policy of collecting all the information you need from a contact that is going to be included. You should also strongly consider mapping out your sales processes for each of your services so it is easier to manage your brewing business.

   It is also a good idea to keep your software requirements in mind when selecting your CRM, as you will want to select a title that plays nicely with your existing solution. Is your chosen email platform Outlook? Make sure to find a CRM that integrates with it for optimal benefits.

SRS Networks is here to help you with these considerations, and more. To learn what we can do to assist your customer relationship management through IT solutions, or any other of your business processes, reach out to us at (831) 758-3636.