CRM software is a useful tool for businesses in every industry from wholesale, distribution, and manufacturing to field services.
The power of a CRM lies in its ability to manage your sales process. By keeping track of everything from your sales pipeline to customer data, CRM solutions empower your sales team with the information they need to close deals.
When it comes to CRM solutions, however, some are better than others. As you evaluate CRM options, it’s important to think of the business challenges you are trying to solve.
For distribution companies, this could mean looking for a solution that enables online payments or aligns your inventory orders with incoming sales opportunities.
To help you make the right choice, we review the top features your distribution CRM needs to have.
Things to look for in your distribution CRM
QuickBooks sync
Using a QuickBooks CRM, like Method:CRM, is a great way for you to make sure your sales and accounting data sync up and tell the same story. And trust us when we say this is something you’ll be very thankful for come year-end.
For distribution companies, a CRM that syncs with QuickBooks offers extra value as it can streamline your inventory management process. With data flowing automatically between the systems responsible for receiving and selling your stock, using a QuickBooks CRM makes sure your inventory quantities are always up-to-date.
Cloud capabilities
In the wake of COVID-19, it’s more important than ever to ensure your distribution CRM supports remote work. A cloud-based CRM does this by allowing you to access its information with just your login details and an internet connection.
Another plus of a cloud-based CRM is that it updates instantly. So if you need your sales numbers for the day or an updated list of stock, you can use real-time reporting to get it without delay.
Seamless integrations
When selecting your distribution CRM, it’s important to make sure you can connect with the other software you use. Looking at the integrations a distribution CRM offers is a great way to see if it will work with tools you already use.
Method:CRM, for example, integrates with Gmail, Outlook, and Mailchimp, so that all lead and customer communication is documented and flows freely between your software solutions.
If you use these tools, connecting them to your distribution CRM means less data entry for your team and greater information accuracy.
Customer management
CRM stands for customer relationship management. So at its core, your CRM solution should serve as a repository for all your lead and customer information.
When looking for a distribution CRM, you want one that will give you a 360-degree view of your leads and customers – from the first point of contact to their last purchase with you.
This information will give you insights into your customer’s buying and communication habits, that you can then use to personalize your offering to their preferences.
To further improve your customer service, you’ll want a distribution CRM with online customer portals. These portals give your customers more convenience and flexibility as they can make payments online or submit requests to your business 24/7.
Checklist: What to look for in your distribution CRM
- QuickBooks sync – To connect your sales, accounting, and inventory data.
- Cloud-based – Get reports in real time and make it easy to work remotely.
- Seamless integrations – Let data flow freely across your business.
- Customer management – Keep up to date with your customers and provide them with the best experience possible.
See how Method:CRM helps distributors grow with a free trial.
Image credit: Hannes Egler via Unsplash
