CRM, short for Customer Relationship Management, may seem like a “techy” term, but put simply it means organizing your customer data. CRM programs vary across fields, but there are common themes that should be applied at all businesses, which can lead to growth.

• Understand the Value: Data curation is one of the most valuable assets you can have. Maintaining, creating, and utilizing a CRM will help you connect with those who are crucial to your goals. Building and managing your own CRM will increase the value of your business’ information. 
• Collect Information: It can be overwhelming, but having a lot of information for your business connections is incredibly valuable. It may seem like you only need one piece of information, such as an email, but collecting more can help in the future.
• Filter and Organize: Manage your data and navigate easier by segmenting and filtering. Having a lot of information is important, but filters keep things from falling into chaos. For example, maintaining a filter for the types of business (retail, restaurant, etc) will help you narrow down choices.
• Keep Data in One Place: Acquiring data is valuable, however if it is in many different locations it is less effective. Maintaining a centralized location for your data helps ensure you know where to go.
• Use Your Data: After you curate and organize, make sure you use it! You should be able to go into the CRM to answer questions and contact people. These data sources are more effective than just an internet search because your contact will ideally have a previous relationship with the company. Connecting with someone who already knows you or your organization will yield better results.

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This article was published in the Venango Chamber’s August 2020 VenangoWorks! Newsletter.