Common CRM Mistakes to Avoid: Part 2

1. Choosing a Planned vs. Patched CRM Approach
The first mistake we will discuss today is commonly referred to as “patches.” One of the biggest CRM mistakes companies make is adopting a “patched” approach, adding functions and fixes along the way without an overall strategy. It’s like working in different directions without a particular goal in mind. Obviously, things will go haywire this way. This ad-hoc approach often leads to a cluttered, inefficient system, resulting in high costs and wasted time.

A planned CRM project, on the other hand, gives you a clear A to Z roadmap, allowing you to align your CRM system with your business goals and compare your progress. If you want to stop yourself from spending too much time, energy, and money, you need a planned approach. Many people come to our company and only want one thing done on their system. However, the problem is that over the years, they have had so many things done wrong and spent so much time and money, but the results have been poor.

This is because the one time you create a feature that is messed up, the correct features will not work either.

Solution:
STOP whatever you’re doing and create a plan for your project. The next step would be to Take this plan to a consultant. Now, the consultant will look at your business requirements and give you the best possible advice. All you have to do is follow their instructions and execute everything efficiently.

2. Lack of CRM Employee Training

It’s one thing to have a powerful CRM system in place, and another to ensure employees know how to use it effectively. A common CRM mistake is failing to train employees properly, leaving them hesitant or unaware of using certain functions. Some employees may not speak up if they’re struggling, preventing your business from fully leveraging the CRM’s features.

Solution:

The solution to this problem is simple, but it works wonders. Develop CRM training modules to make training mandatory for all relevant staff. Whether through a consultant, third-party vendor, or in-house management, ensure all employees complete training and understand how to use the system. This improves efficiency and maximizes the CRM’s benefits for your business. The best part? If you add this training test as a mandatory part of your hiring process, you will know which employee would be a great fit for your company and which will fall short despite their best efforts.

3. Inadequate CRM System Integration

A well-integrated CRM allows seamless data flow, reducing manual work and ensuring faster operations. Unfortunately, many businesses overlook CRM system integration, resulting in lost productivity and opportunities. For instance, if your CRM doesn’t integrate with third-party applications like credit checks or payment systems, you’ll spend unnecessary time on manual processes.

Solution:
Invest in CRM integration solutions that can connect your CRM with other vital software applications. Although there may be an initial investment, CRM integration benefits include saved time and money in the long run. An example would be using an API to automate client data entry, reducing a manual 10-15 minute task to seconds.

4. Poor Automation: Missing Out on Efficiency

Automation can significantly boost your business efficiency, minimizing errors and saving time. Without CRM automated processes, businesses often rely on repetitive manual tasks that could easily be streamlined. Automating data entry, reporting, and workflow approvals helps maintain consistency and keeps your employees focused on more important work.

If we are being honest, our business would not have reached the height that it has today without automation. Automation has been our bread and butter, and it will work great for you, too.

Solution:
CONSULT an automation expert to determine which parts of your CRM system can be automated. Every CRM system includes automation features; the key is knowing how to utilize them to suit your business. Proper automation creates effective CRM system use, reduces errors, and allows for regular, accurate reporting on business performance.