5 Ways to Improve Your Customer Service

by Leave a Comment

Customer service is the pulse of life for companies large and small. Without proper organization of it’s ins and outs, sales slump and the way forward can quickly become a murky mess.  Consistent customer service gains is not a mystery however, for those who’ve managed to whittle their customer service game down to a few crucial essentials.

1. Invest in a powerful contact management software system

Today’s smartest companies have realized that contact management must go beyond Outlook in order to meet the challenging needs of an forward-moving company.  With the variety of choices available today, it’s worth it to research top contact management systems and determine which will work best for your company’s present and future needs. A good  software system will organize your contacts, grant shared access to calendars and facilitate email marketing.  An excellent contact management software system will track sales, provide detailed customer analysis and statistics, automatically connect contact information with data from any source within the system and more.

2. Create Visible Success Markers

Your customer relations efforts need a swift pace and pulse to get things moving forward consistently. What better way to achieve this than to set visible and realistic markers for success among your customer service workers. For instance if your goal is retaining customers, give rewards for workers who successfully achieve present numbers over sales cycles.  If consistency is also key, be sure to reward workers who may not have the numbers but can be counted on for recurring accomplishment.

3. Realize You’re in the Education Business

Injecting the notion of constant education into your CRM never fails. Customer service departments with a good grip on practical and informal ways to educate customers about the product and train them a little bit with each conversation on how to use it and its unique benefits repeatedly excel beyond the competition.  No matter what the nature of your business is customers will appreciate and emphasis on education and so will your bottom line.

4. Employ only the Best

Keep in mind that the definition of “the best” has changed in today’s modern markets.  What used to be the go-to criteria, the familiar “at least five years experience” is not necessarily the most effective – especially in customer service.The same five years of experience that made the grade in the past could be what’s holding back your team today as workers used to the routine are less welling to connect with customers in new ways. It may be risky, but an alternative is to hire fresh outlooks and positive, upbeat character and train for skill later.

5. Deepen Your Customer Perspective

Do you know what it’s like to buy one of your own products or what it’s like to chat with one of your customer service reps? One of the biggest customer service pitfalls companies make is being completely out of touch with their customer base.  Surprisingly, it takes more than full attention to the bottom line to keep customer service ticking. An in-depth analysis of customer obstacles, beliefs and opinions about your company could be an invaluable resource you have yet to tap.  Try reaching out to your customers with a blog comments section on your website or conduct an survey to ascertain where you customer’s interests lie.

To improve your customer service efforts give InfoFlo a Try! Free 30 day trial…here
DiggThis

Post to Twitter Tweet This Post

Top 5 Customer Service Standard Guidelines

by Leave a Comment

No matter how great your company’s mission statement or how qualified your executive staff, your business simply cannot thrive and prosper consistently without a solid customer service standard.  All the service-related conferences, seminars and workshops rolled into one can’t deliver the one that’s right for your company.  A customer service standard must be tailored specifically to the unique and special characteristics of your particular company.

Acknowledging this, here are a few guidelines to try on for size. Feel free to creatively shape and hone those that stand out the most for your business until just the right fit emerges.

1. “Success is in the details.”

It’s always good to start with a few good customer service values like the familiar ‘success is in the details’ to get a solid foundation for developing more specific customer service standards.

2. “If you call or visit a branch office, you will find…”

Try developing standards based on the various customer relations scenarios that a customer might encounter.  For instance, determine what level of customer service a customer will find if they were to write to one of your facilities, call or visit a branch office or visit your website.

3.  “You can expect…”

Developing a standard based on what the customer can expect in terms of service provides a clearly communicated, shared service objective.  This results in mutually agreed upon criteria that sets the pace for your customer service team and grants an added sense of security to customers. Customers just may be more open to sales tactics and strategies when they know what level of service they can rely on.

4. “We’re committed to providing service according to the following standards…”

A clearly stated and well-defined customer service commitment can work wonders.  Employers gain added confidence with a clear cut standard that focuses their intentions and customer service aspirations.  A stated commitment can also boost morale among teams. A shared customer service belief system that teams can easily stick to begins with a realistic commitment statement.

5. Timeliness, Accuracy and Appropriateness

These are the three key elements can help define customer service standards like no other.  They form the backbone of any successful customer-company relationship and just so happen to be a close description important service issues. Try setting basic standards with these elements in mind. Broad strokes at first can develop into more specific definitions tailored to fit your company’s unique characteristics. Starting with key elements that keep customers happy will get your company well on its way to standards that produce solid results.

 

 

DiggThis

Post to Twitter Tweet This Post

Keep Documents Organized with CRM Software

by Leave a Comment

Keeping documents organized with CRM software may be new to many companies who have not yet discovered the versatility of this unique business tool.  Many may believe that it is limited only to organizing lists of company contacts, much like Outlook.  The truth is, however, its capabilities cover far more territory and may be just the tool your company needs to excel beyond the competition.  Particularly in the area of document management, software has the ability to keep items organized with clarity and ease.

The advantages of CRM software with key company document organizing features are numerous. Most software systems organize documents by linking them to contacts, so that each time a user clicks a contact’s name, all electronic documents associated with the contact are in full display.  This provides a sensible system of order and reduces clutter within the company’s computer system.  It also means that document retrieval is a snap, creating better workflow and saving precious time.

Further document archiving features include ways to keep folders organized. Top systems create folders for documents automatically each time a new contact or company is created.  Again, much-needed time can be saved when users avoid creating the same folder for each account over and over again.  This, added to the ability to copy and paste folders, files and documents across contact entries, opens up greater and greater possibilities for workers to use time productively.

The document management feature also has more beneficial advantages.  Take, for instance, version control. This term refers to the user’s ability to check documents in or out of the system for updates, changes, comments and general editing.  This allows multiple users to collaborate on document creation, complete with access to previous versions for referencing.  It can also reduce the frustration involved when multiple writers collaborate on a document, allowing each writer to pick up where the other left off without skipping a beat.

Keep in mind that some software solutions include document management as an added feature in addition to a list of core software features.  It’s best to keep an eye out for this important feature whether it’s an add-on or a core offering.  Its advantages make CRM software well worth the investment.

DiggThis

Post to Twitter Tweet This Post

Managing Sales with CRM Software

by Leave a Comment

Sales is, perhaps, one of the most dynamic departments of a company, and it requires top-notch technology to accommodate its fast pace and indispensability. CRM software can be just what every sales team needs in order to meet both long and short-term goals. Though at times it may be difficult to accurately gauge the most salient sales team needs, it’s not hard to predict that CRM software is a smart investment designed to be effective in almost any sales situation.

Many business owners will be impressed with the ability to stay abreast of sales leads and new sales opportunities.  The software provides the ability to organize contacts according to shared characteristics. Categorize top sellers or key leads, grouping them together for convenient and consistent email blasts with just a click of the mouse. Most CRM software systems also allow users to track trends with detailed reports integrated into the software. This means essential sales data is always right at your fingertips.

Not only does its reporting tool allow for easy access to information, it can also ensure that the information is accurate and precise.  Organized and aggregated data is easier to calculate and import into charts, graphs and other visual displays.  What’s more, these calculations can then be shared with other members of a sales team using add-ons such as project management and document sharing.

No longer is the individual client lost in the myriad of information surrounding an account. CRM software provides the foundation for collecting receipts, invoices, emails, orders and more, and aggregating each in a logical manner.  This allows users to quickly locate detailed information about particular sales clients without loss of time and with very little effort.  This system is convenient as ever for sales teams with fast-paced schedules and daily routines.

If it’s customization your sales team needs, this software delivers. Those in need of the ultimate in tailored systems will be happy to know that it also comes in open source format with a variety of compatible codes to choose from.  If the preference is for a plug and play system, users would do well to select software that includes customizable features such as the ability to add categories and adjust rules and settings to fit sales department needs.

A strong  system can mean the difference between landing the next big sales opportunity and completely squandering it.  This is due to this business solution’s unique ability to tie together all the most important aspects of sales team management, keeping data organized and always at your fingertips.  It’s software that can reduce huge losses in time and energy, freeing staff to turn to the most productive activities of a job. It’s benefits for sales teams could be invaluable to the success of your business and are definitely worth a solid investment.

 

 

DiggThis

Post to Twitter Tweet This Post

The Benefits of On-Premise CRM

by Leave a Comment

Though they may not be readily obvious to the average user, the benefits of on-premise CRM are quite numerous no matter how elaborate your office management goals may be. Businesses both small and large need the peace of mind that comes from reliable, in-house software that’s easy to access and free from the sometimes frustrating complexities of operating in the cloud or dealing with hosted software.

For instance, consider the outcome of connectivity losses. With most of the data and security features of off-premise CRM located elsewhere, any breakdowns in Internet communications, whether intentional or accidental, can cause serious setbacks for business, particularly financial loss and diminished business reputation. One of the biggest benefits of on-premise is that the risk of data inaccessibility can be significantly reduced, leaving internal operations running smoothly despite external circumstances.

One of the most important benefits of on-premise CRM solutions to consider carefully deals with security and integrity of business information. Some companies will view sharing confidential customer contacts and information with an outside vendor – despite well-advertised security features – as quite a risky endeavor. The greatest benefits of on-premise CRM lie in its ability to give users exclusive control of sensitive company information.

Additionally, the benefits of on-premise can mean less money spent on monthly fees and costs and more money available for company growth. Most cloud or hosted solutions offer services available “for rent” with users paying timed fees to keep the software running. On-premise solutions, however, offer solutions based on a one-time fee, eliminating the extra costs of monthly or annual contracts and licensing fees. The cost savings of on-premise software often makes it the best option in the long run.

DiggThis

Post to Twitter Tweet This Post

Cloud CRM Considerations

by Leave a Comment

If you are planning to subscribe to a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) solution in the cloud, there are several things to consider first. For most companies, operating in the cloud is till uncharted territory, but it doesn’t take long to experience its many unique benefits. However, it’s good advice to stay mindful of the downsides. If cloud computing is not right for your business, on premise software is always an option.

One of the biggest assets of operating a CRM software tool in the cloud is complete accessibility. All the benefits and unique features of an effective contact management solution can be accessed from anywhere in the world using almost any device. This means that capabilities are expanded across the board in terms of strengthening and supporting day to day business functions and streamlining customer service and marketing keeping customer relations running smoothly.

The cloud computing experience can be daunting, however, when there are security issues or Internet connectivity problems. In view of the risk of data being compromised, cloud CRM software can be a considerable investment. Since company information is not completely under control of the user, this is a serious concern for most companies. Keep this in mind when debating whether to go with the cloud or stick with on premise solutions.

An on premise solution may be the way to go if your business needs adaptable customer relations management yet still needs control over company information. This consideration can go a long way over the long haul. Don’t rule out the numerous benefits of private cloud solutions which allow the best of both cloud computing and on premise solutions.

Deciding whether to dive into the world of cloud solutions for business is bound to be a choice that many companies will face soon. It’s a big decision with a variety of factors to consider, so be sure to do your homework. Both cloud contact management software and on premise systems have pros and cons that are well worth the time and deliberation before choosing what’s best for your company.

DiggThis

Post to Twitter Tweet This Post

Private Cloud vs. Public Small Business Cloud CRM Software

by Leave a Comment

For those who have a solid understanding of cloud computing, the next big hurdle is getting a grasp of the difference between public clouds and private clouds. In terms of CRM software, this is a major distinction worth taking the time to work out thoroughly. In a public cloud, major company information often shares the same space on a server accessible to the public, possibly including the competition, and there are more compromises and concerns to consider.

In the business world, companies often must give something up in order to gain something of value. This holds true even in the world of CRM software. In exchange for the versatility and major expandability of using a public cloud solution, companies must surrender significant data management control, and, in cases where servers are shared with the competition, risk losing unique identity within the industry.

Private clouds, on the other hand, afford companies more privacy and exclusivity in control of sensitive company information. Each company owns its own servers and hardware, and this often yields a greater sense of empowerment. A more empowered company may or may not be better at using CRM software effectively to handle complex customer relations. It’s definitely something to consider carefully when deciding which solution, public cloud or private cloud, is best for your business.

Using a private cloud is not without its drawbacks. Mainly, customers must sacrifice the expandability available in the cloud. The ultimate factors in choosing what’s best for your company will depend on the specific nature of your business as well as the chief objectives to be accomplished by using CRM solutions. Once the foundation is laid for an informed decision, companies should be encouraged to act quickly. The rewards and benefits of both solutions can bring great gains when used efficiently.

DiggThis

Post to Twitter Tweet This Post

Best Contact Manager Software- Keeping Your Best Customers

by Leave a Comment

The most devastating scenario in business is the consistent loss of your very best customers. Consequently, today’s companies are wise to make smart investments into tools and resources that keep customers engaged and satisfied with products and services. One of the best ways to do so is to invest in contact management software. Working with a company’s list of contacts as foundation, can consistently enhance customer relations.

Unlike some business tools, contact management software does not alienate customers. Instead, it can enhance customer engagement by linking and connecting customer information with relevant company data. For instance, imagine the ability to view a customer’s purchase history as it relates to a current marketing strategy or company project. This kind of increased business capacity allows your workforce to become experts in personalized customer relations.

The way a business is organized and administrated internally can have significant effect on customer relationships. A scattered and disconnected approach to internal organization often automatically spells dissatisfied customers who are quick to leave the company, never to return. A contact manager is the perfect tool for successfully linking customer information, leaving a lasting and solid impression of complete internal efficiency. With its ability to incorporate maps of contact addresses, logs of emails, notes and documents associated with an account or project and even voice recordings, Skype chats and calendars pertaining to any particular contact, it can strengthen any customer relations arsenal. For keeping your best customers, contact management software could very well be the most essential investment you’ll ever make for your business or organization.

DiggThis

Post to Twitter Tweet This Post

Why Contact Management Software is Excellent for Start-ups

by Leave a Comment

Every start-up company is unique and has its own specific needs. One element, however, is common. Just about every start-up can use reliable business tools that set the pace for dynamic future growth as well as day-to-day efficiency. One dependable way to accomplish this is to use contact management software.  A good system can lay the groundwork for excellence in administrative functions, sales and marketing and all throughout the various departments of a new and upcoming company.

Many start-ups find that CRM software is a perfect way to maximize initial potential in terms of getting organized.  Most systems will allow for uploads from Outlooks or CSS files so that initial set-up is a cinch.  Once business contacts are in the system database, link them to emails, documents, notes and even voice recordings.  Doing so makes each client or customer account fully accessible with detailed and specific information which can  be easily updated on a regular basis.

Top contact manager systems can be customized and tailored to fit the unique needs of your start-up. In addition, many vendors also offer unique add-on features such as PBX integration, Skype integration, email marketing, calendar sharing and much more.  Startups can capitalize on a system’s unique features by receiving proper training for each use and function through vendor-offered tutorials, and it’s best to pass this training on to both executives and employees in order to reap the full potential of your system.

When it comes to the best solutions for start-ups, contact management software is an excellent resource. Be sure to locate a system that fits well with your initial vision and outlook for future growth.  Beyond that, the possibilities are endless.

 

DiggThis

Post to Twitter Tweet This Post

Benefits of Project Management

by Leave a Comment

Project management needs can be greatly diverse.  Without a comprehensive and convenient way of managing projects on a day-to-day basis, even the best endeavors can be quickly derailed or delayed.  This is why contact management software is so important for project management.  A fully integrated system can bring clarity and simplified organization to even the most chaotic ventures.

Contact management software is often used to manage and streamline everyday company business functions and routines, but it can also be useful in project management. At the heart of project management is the teamwork and group activity necessary to achieve a new and specific goal. Even though the work of the team may not be routine, it’s still helpful to have a way of managing tasks and information within the group on a daily basis until the product or service is complete.

For instance, consider the many benefits of using project management to coordinate group activity, making documents, emails and more available to anyone in the group through a single display.  This information sharing is made possible with special contact management software features sometimes available as an add-on features.  Most project management add-ons are fully integrated, meaning they works with your existing system to execute a project.

Using the fully integrated project management features of a contact management software system means the ultimate elimination of third party software.  Team members will be able to collaborate freely with each other by sharing and distributing emails, files voice recordings and documents throughout the group.  Even calendars, notes and contacts can all be shared, openly updated in real-time and stored neatly in specific shared locations.  With all the benefits of a complete and fully integrated contact management software system, there’s no better way to make project management the best it can be.

DiggThis

Post to Twitter Tweet This Post