You have reached the stage in your startup's growth that now requires a few key decisions, one of which is selecting and implementing your customer relationship management (CRM) software. This isn't a decision you should take lightly, and picking the wrong platform could cause delays or problems down the road as you grow. But you also have to be keenly mindful of your budget and find a platform your teams can easily navigate.
Before you make your final purchasing decisions, keep reading. There are a few critical aspects you may want to consider first. Not all CRMs are created equal, each presenting its own unique pros and cons. And of the countless CRM options out there, and there are plenty, only one will be the best CRM for your startup.
What to Look for in a CRM
You’ll likely need your CRM to offer a few basics. Of course, whatever software solutions you implement will need to help your teams manage contacts and nurture leads. But there’s also a customer service component, and early on, your startup can’t afford to make customer experience mistakes.
Start by compiling a priority list, identifying which requirements you absolutely need the most right now. No CRM should be considered that doesn’t first check off each of these boxes. The best CRM platform is one that can be implemented without undue complexity or cost, so users can start to understand and use the functionality sooner.
Once you have your roster of "need to have" solutions, you can then add in those “nice to have” features or extras that might be helpful down the road. Projecting scalability will help you determine what your future CRM will need to have. You can't predict every growth scenario and challenge. However, not taking scalability into consideration now may mean having to start over with another CRM later. Compiling both of these feature lists can serve as your ultimate guide in evaluating which CRM is best for your startup.
Marketing Automation Matters
One key aspect of a CRM is its ability to track buying trends of your customers. It should provide insights that allow your startup to effectively create actionable marketing strategies, in addition to basic lead management functions. For example, HubSpot offers an all-in-one software solution that helps manage inbound marketing, sales, customer service, and operations.
System Integration Capabilities
CRM integration for your startup is equally important for a number of reasons. Effective integration means connecting your various sales, marketing, and customer service functions in one efficient platform. Choosing a CRM that integrates well also makes it easier for your employees to share data with each other about customers and processes. A CRM will only be efficient if it can merge into your business ecosystem seamlessly.
Finding a CRM that Fits Your Budget
As you’re reviewing your CRM options, finding the best solution will likely also mean working within your budget. But it’s important to also remember that expensive doesn’t necessarily equate to better, and cheaper costs upfront might turn into additional expenses later. To help you make your best CRM purchasing decision, look at your working budget now as well as your startup’s growth potential. Investing in a CRM solution that won’t scale with your business will prove to be more costly in the future. Spending a little extra now to get the CRM solution that can pivot with your company direction is usually the soundest decision.
Why HubSpot CRM Is Always the First Pick for Many Startups
HubSpot CRM is often the first choice for many startups for several reasons. From a budget perspective, there are deep discounts available for qualified startups. And even the Free CRM plan supports up to one million companies and contacts, along with providing tools and templates. The live chat feature includes conversational bots. Pipeline automation processes include custom properties that allow you to really make the sales process unique to your vision. Track calls, schedule meetings, and view performance metrics in an easy-to-use platform. And your teams will have price and quoting tools, like a products library and digital signature capabilities, at their fingertips.
The market is full of potential CRM solutions from which to choose, each offering a host of attractive solutions. And sorting through the features and costs of some, like Zoho CRM, Agile CRM, and PipeDrive CRM can be confusing. One of the more popular solutions is HubSpot CRM. Many startups move toward HubSpot CRM because of its user-friendly nature and easy-to-learn platform dynamics. And the HubSpot CRM is often the budget-friendly choice, great for accommodating company budgets now and meeting scalability needs over time.
The Importance of Choosing a CRM Integration Partner
Having all the right tools won’t be helpful if you’re not able to tap into the benefits of those tools. Many startups opt for software solutions that sound great. But then, without the proper direction and support, companies struggle to put those solutions in place. This is why considering a partnership with a CRM integration professional is essential.
Choosing a CRM partner will ensure your startup has all the right support to execute each level of integration. Your teams will need training on new software. You’ll likely need your CRM to perform certain functions and collect relevant data. Enlisting the help of an expert means setting your system, your teams, and your startup up for success.
When choosing a CRM and a CRM partner, look for an expert like Sellerant. Our professionals understand the importance of taking the right actions at the right time. We also know the value of leveraging a CRM’s many facets for maximum results. And when it comes to protecting your software solutions investment by managing risks and costs, having strategic support can translate to immediate ROI.
As a startup, every phase of growth requires critical decisions about tools, growth projection, and budgets. If you’re facing a CRM decision, you don’t have to go it alone. Connect with us, and let’s explore your goals and objectives. We can help you not only choose the best CRM but also assist your teams in leveraging the best features to be successful.