Customer relationship management (CRM) software is a tool that helps businesses manage their customer interactions and relationships. SaaS CRM, or software as a service CRM, is a type of CRM software that is hosted in the cloud and can be accessed over the internet. This means that businesses do not need to install or maintain any software on their own servers.

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SIDE NOTE: SellingLane CRM is a SaaS CRM, hosted in Google Cloud Services, arguably the fastest and most secure service on the planet.

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“CRM is the heart of any successful business.”

– Marc Benioff, co-founder and CEO of Salesforce

A SaaS CRM has a number of advantages over traditional on-premises CRM software, including:

• Affordability: online CRMs are typically more affordable than on-premises CRM software, as there is no upfront cost for hardware or software licenses. For example, SellingLane CRM is free to try then a very reasonable $6 per month.
• Scalability: Online CRM’s are easily scalable, so businesses can easily add or remove users as needed.
• Ease of use: SaaS CRM is typically more user-friendly than on-premises CRM software, as it is hosted in the cloud and can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection.

A SaaS CRM can be used by businesses of all sizes to improve their customer interactions and relationships. It can be used to track customer interactions, manage sales opportunities, provide customer support, and more.

“CRM is not about managing data, it’s about managing relationships.”

– Esteban Kolsky, customer experience advisor, keynote speaker, and author

Here are some of the benefits of using SaaS CRM:

• Improved customer service: SaaS CRM can help businesses to improve their customer service by providing them with a central place to track customer interactions and support tickets. It can also help businesses to personalize their customer service experience by providing them with insights into customer behavior and preferences.
• Increased sales: SaaS CRM can help businesses to increase their sales by providing them with a better understanding of their customers and their needs. It can also help businesses to automate their sales process and to track their sales pipeline more effectively.
• Increased efficiency: SaaS CRM can help businesses to increase their efficiency by automating tasks and streamlining processes. This can free up employees to focus on more important tasks, such as building relationships with customers and closing deals.
• Mobile First: most great sass CRM’s are mobile friendly first, in other words the software is designed for mobile, so reps in the field can use the software as seamlessly as a person sitting in an office at a computer.

“CRM is the key to unlocking the value of your customer data.”

– Eric Schmidt, former CEO of Google

Here are 5 ways SaaS CRM can help you grow your business:

1. Improve customer relationships: SaaS CRM can help you improve your customer relationships by providing you with a central place to track customer interactions, manage sales opportunities, and provide customer support. This can help you to better understand your customers’ needs and preferences, and to provide them with a more personalized experience.
2. Increase sales: SaaS CRM can help you increase your sales by providing you with a better understanding of your sales pipeline and by automating tasks such as lead nurturing and follow-up. This can help you to close more deals and grow your revenue.
3. Increase efficiency: SaaS CRM can help you increase your efficiency by automating tasks and streamlining processes. This can free up your employees to focus on more important tasks, such as building relationships with customers and closing deals.
4. Improve customer satisfaction: SaaS CRM can help you improve customer satisfaction by providing you with the tools you need to deliver a personalized and efficient customer experience. This can lead to increased customer loyalty and repeat business.
5. Make better decisions: SaaS CRM can help you make better decisions by providing you with insights into your customer data and sales pipeline. This information can help you to identify trends, opportunities, and areas for improvement.

Overall, SaaS CRM is a powerful tool that can help businesses of all sizes to grow and succeed. By improving customer relationships, increasing sales, increasing efficiency, improving customer satisfaction, and helping you to make better decisions, SaaS CRM can help you to achieve your business goals.

Our Final Opinion

SaaS CRM is a powerful tool that can help businesses of all sizes to improve their customer interactions and relationships, increase their sales, and increase their efficiency. If you are looking for a way to improve your business, I encourage you to consider using SaaS CRM.

Customer loyalty is essential for businesses of all sizes. Loyal customers are more likely to make repeat purchases, spend more money, and refer your business to their friends and family. CRM systems can help you build customer loyalty by providing you with the tools and insights you need to understand your customers and deliver a personalized experience.

Here are a few tips on how to use CRM to build customer loyalty:

• Segment your customers. Not all customers are created equal. Segmenting your customers based on their demographics, purchase history, and other factors will help you to understand their needs and deliver a more personalized experience. For example, you could send a different email newsletter to new customers than you would to loyal customers.
• Personalize your communications. Customers appreciate it when you take the time to personalize your communications with them. Use CRM to track customer preferences and purchase history. This information can then be used to send targeted marketing messages and promotions. For example, you could send a customer a discount on a product that they’ve been browsing lately.
• Provide excellent customer service. Customer service is essential for building customer loyalty. Use CRM to track customer interactions and ensure that all issues are resolved quickly and efficiently. You can also use CRM to identify customers who have had a negative experience and reach out to them to resolve the issue.
• Reward loyal customers. Show your loyal customers that you appreciate their business by offering them rewards and incentives. For example, you could offer a loyalty program that gives customers points for every purchase they make. These points can then be redeemed for discounts or other rewards.

CRM systems can also help you to identify and address customer churn. Churn is the rate at which customers stop doing business with you. By tracking customer interactions and analyzing customer data, you can identify customers who are at risk of churning. You can then reach out to these customers and offer them incentives to stay with you.

Building customer loyalty takes time and effort, but it’s worth it in the long run. Loyal customers are more likely to make repeat purchases, spend more money, and refer your business to their friends and family. CRM systems can help you to build customer loyalty by providing you with the tools and insights you need to understand your customers and deliver a personalized experience.

“Customer loyalty is not something that you can buy. You have to earn it.” –

Michael LeBoeuf idea what you’re talking about

Here are a few additional tips for building customer loyalty with CRM:

• Make it easy for customers to do business with you. Your CRM system should be easy to use and accessible to all of your employees. This will ensure that everyone in the company has the information they need to deliver a great customer experience.
• Use CRM to automate tasks. CRM systems can automate many of the tasks involved in customer management, such as sending follow-up emails and scheduling appointments. This can free up your employees to focus on building relationships with customers and providing excellent service.
• Use CRM to measure your progress. CRM systems can provide you with valuable insights into your customer relationships. Use this information to track your progress and identify areas where you can improve.

By following these tips, you can use CRM to build customer loyalty and grow your business.

Businesses and solopreneurs are constantly seeking tools to streamline their business, enhance customer relationships, and boost sales. Enter CRM (Customer Relationship Management) systems, the superheroes of modern business tools. But like every superhero, there are variations: the in-house CRM and the SaaS (Software as a Service) CRM. So, which one should you choose? Let’s dive deep into the battle of the CRMs.

From Spreadsheets to SaaS CRM: The Modern Shift

Many businesses, especially startups and SMEs, begin their customer management journey with tools like Excel or Apple Numbers. While these tools are great for basic data storage, they lack the advanced features, security, and ease of use that a dedicated CRM system offers.

Why make the shift?

1. Security: Online CRMs, especially SaaS versions, come with robust security features, ensuring your customer data is safe from breaches.
2. Centralization: No more juggling between multiple sheets or files. Everything you need is in one place.
3. Automation: From sending follow-up emails to generating reports, automation features in CRMs save time and reduce errors.
4. Collaboration: Multiple team members can access and update the CRM in real-time, ensuring everyone is on the same page.

In-house CRM: The Homegrown Hero

What is it? In-house CRM systems are software solutions developed internally or customized by a third-party but hosted on a company’s own servers.

Pros of Homegrown In-house Software:

1. Customization: Since it’s developed in-house, you can tailor it precisely to your business needs.
2. Data Control: All data remains within the company’s infrastructure, which can be a plus for businesses with sensitive information.
3. Offline Access: No need for internet access to get to your data.

Cons of Homegrown In-house Software

1. High Initial Costs: Development, hardware, and software licenses can be pricey.
2. Maintenance: You’re responsible for updates, bug fixes, and dealing with potential downtimes.
3. Scalability Issues: As your business grows, you might need to invest more in infrastructure and further customization.

SaaS CRM: Online Software to Run Your Business

What is it? SaaS CRM is a cloud-based service. Instead of being hosted on a company’s servers, it’s hosted on the provider’s servers and accessed via the internet.

Pros of Online SaaS CRM

1. Cost-Effective: Typically, you pay a subscription fee. No hefty initial investments. And most online CRM’s, have the ability to increase the size of your database as you grow. And will allow you to add additional users as you grow without any need for programmers come in and reprogram your servers or add additional equipment.
2. Easy Upgrades: The service provider handles updates and new features. As opposed to what happens with in-house systems, where any customization requires an expense
3. Scalability: As your business grows, you can easily adjust your subscription to fit your needs.
4. Accessibility: Access your data from anywhere with an internet connection. This is a big one, it allows entrepreneurs to run their business, even when on vacation or offsite. For example, the other day I was in the hospital, waiting for my significant other, and I was still able to run my business from my phone.

Cons of Online SaaS CRM

1. Internet Dependency: No internet, no access. This is definitely a concern if your business is in the wilderness or you wish to access your database remotely. But remember, in-house systems only work in house and the availability of Internet today is pretty universal. Especially with companies like Starlink satellite Internet available, almost worldwide
2. Customization Limits: While many SaaS CRMs offer customization, there might be limits compared to in-house solutions. However, most sass CRM have all the tools you need to run your business. It may not look the way you’re used to, but after a little bit of utilization, in most cases, you’ll be better off then with an in-house system.
3. Data Control: Since data is stored off-site, some businesses might have concerns about security and compliance. But this is usually not the case anymore with SSL certificates and bank level user security that most CRM’s use to protect customer data.

The Verdict

The choice between in-house and SaaS CRM boils down to your business’s specific needs and resources. If you have the budget, technical expertise, and a need for deep customization, in-house might be the way to go. However, if you’re looking for a cost-effective, scalable solution with minimal maintenance, SaaS CRM is a strong contender.

As the great business thinker Peter Drucker once said, “Efficiency is doing things right; effectiveness is doing the right things.” Whether you choose in-house or SaaS, the key is to ensure that your CRM aligns with your business goals and enhances your relationship with your customers.

Ready to explore the world of SaaS CRM? Check out Selling Lane, where efficiency meets effectiveness, and watch your business soar to new heights!

Ah, relationships. As the great Jane Austen once quipped, “It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single business in possession of good customers, must be in want of a CRM.” Okay, maybe she didn’t say exactly that, but if she were a 21st-century business guru, she totally would have! So, let discover how it can sprinkle some pixie dust on your customer relationships with this ultimate guide to CRM.

Here are the 5 Reasons CRM’s Work So Well.

1. Always Remembering… Everything!

“The Digital Diary of Delight: SaaS CRM’s Memory Magic!”

Every interaction with our customers count, so, forgetting a detail can be a cardinal sin. But fret not, for the SaaS CRM is here to be your memory’s knight in shining armor! With this digital marvel, gone are the days when you’d scramble through notes trying to recall if it’s Mr. Thompson’s birthday or if Mrs. Rodriguez mentioned her cat’s affinity for gourmet fish. 🐱🐟

With a SaaS CRM by your side, every tidbit about your customer is stored with precision (so long as you log it). Be it Anna’s birthday bash coming up next week, the fact that Robert adores his golden retriever named Buddy, or that Sarah has a soft spot for emails peppered with fun emojis – everything is at your fingertips. 🎂🐶😊

In SellingLane CRM, we have a feature on both the customer screen and the business info screen called “Customer Insight” and “Business insight” respectfully. The idea is that you could review your about to contact a customer or business, and be reminded of such things as “he has a dog named Komer.” or “He loves sushi.” or “don’t call him Tony, he likes to be called Anthony”

For the “Business insight” it might be used for “They have 100 employees, specializes in steel fabrication” or “Always call on Tuesdays because owner is golfing,” This way, at a glance, you could get some basic insight into the customer.

Oscar Wilde, with his razor-sharp wit, once remarked, “Memory is the diary we all carry about with us.” But one might ponder: why burden our minds with the weight of countless memories when a sleek, easy CRM can carry that diary for us? After all, in the triage ward of business, it’s always best to have a partner that remembers everything like a memory 🐘 elephant!

2. Being There, Without Actually Being There

Businesses often cater to clients from diverse geographies, but the essence of success remains in building and maintaining strong relationships. A SaaS CRM blurs geographical boundaries. Regardless of where your customers are, you can engage with them as if they’re right next door. This digital proximity ensures you’re always in sync with their needs and feedback. Imagine having a virtual coffee chat with a client in Tokyo while you’re in New York. As Mark Twain might humorously point out, “The lack of presence makes the heart grow fonder, especially if you’re always a click away.” While physical distances persist, emotional and business connections are stronger than ever, ensuring every client feels valued and prioritized.

3. Predicting the Future (Sort of)

With great data, you can often anticipate your customers’ needs before they even realize them. It’s like having a crystal ball, but without the foggy ambiguities. As Yogi Berra (I wish I met him) might have chuckled, “It’s tough to make predictions, especially about the future. But with a great system, it’s a tad easier!”

Harnessing the power of data analytics allows you to delve deep into your customers’ behaviors, preferences, and patterns. This proactive approach means you’re not just reacting to their needs; you’re predicting them. By analyzing past interactions, purchase histories, and even browsing habits, you can tailor your offerings and communications to perfectly suit each customer. It’s the modern-day equivalent of reading tea leaves, but with precision and accuracy. Yogi Berra, with his signature wit, once quipped, “It’s tough to make predictions, especially about the future.” Yet, with a robust CRM system in place, you’re not just predicting—you’re preparing. So, while we might not have a magic wand or a mystical orb, with the right tools, we can certainly come close!

4. A Guide to CRM ‘s Ability to Automating the Mundane

Let’s face it, no one likes repetitive tasks. With automation features, your CRM takes care of the mundane, leaving you free to focus on the fun stuff. BECAUSE, “Life is too short for manual data entry.”

Repetitive tasks can be the bane of productivity. They eat uptime, drain energy, and often lead to errors simply because of the monotony they bring. Enter the automation features of a CRM. These features are designed to shoulder the burden of those tedious tasks that seem to crop up daily. From sending follow-up emails to updating records, the CRM ensures that consistency is maintained without you lifting a finger. This not only streamlines operations but also reduces the risk of human error. Imagine the hours you can reclaim, redirecting your focus to more strategic, creative endeavors that truly drive business growth. Albert Einstein, with his brilliant mind and playful spirit, once said, “Imagination is more important than knowledge.” And while he might not have specifically mentioned manual data entry, it’s easy to imagine him advocating for any tool that frees up mental space for more imaginative pursuits. So, let your CRM handle the routine, and you can dive into the innovative, exciting aspects of your business.

5. CRM’s Build Trust, One Keystroke at a Time

My father, a wise man with years of experience under his belt, often echoed the sentiment, “Trust is currency.” It wasn’t just a saying; it was a philosophy he lived by. In the world of business, trust isn’t just handed over; it’s earned, transaction by transaction, interaction by interaction. This is where a SaaS CRM becomes invaluable.

By harnessing the power of cloud technology, a SaaS CRM meticulously records every touchpoint, every preference, and every past interaction with your customers. This isn’t just about data collection; it’s about understanding. When you reach out to a customer with information tailored specifically to their needs or preferences, it sends a clear message: “We’re listening. We care.”

Such personalized interactions, be it through marketing campaigns, sales pitches, or customer service, foster a sense of trust. They show your customers that they’re not just another number in a database, but valued individuals. Over time, this trust compounds, solidifying relationships and ensuring loyalty.

In an age where customers are bombarded with generic advertisements and impersonal sales pitches, standing out requires a personal touch. And with a SaaS CRM, you’re not just reaching out; you’re reaching out in the right way, at the right time, with the right message. Just as my father believed, trust truly is a currency, and with a SaaS CRM, you’re making a wise investment in that trust.

The Grand Finale: Why Selling Lane?

Now, you might be thinking, “All this sounds great, but where do I start?” Enter Selling Lane. It’s not just any SaaS CRM; it’s your business’s new best friend. With features tailored for modern businesses, it’s the secret sauce to jazz up your customer relationships.

So, in the immortal words of Dr. Seuss, “Sometimes the questions are complicated, and the answers are simple.” If the question is how to improve customer relationships, the answer, dear reader, is Selling Lane.

Ready to give your customer relationships a sprinkle of magic? ✨ Hop on the Selling Lane express and watch the transformation unfold!

SellingLane is a powerful CRM system that can help you close more deals. Here are a few tips on how to use SellingLane to your advantage:

Unlocking Business Potential: Mastering Deal Closures with SellingLane

1. Lead Mastery
   “Every contact we have with a customer influences whether or not they’ll come back.” – Shep Hyken

   With our CRM software, every lead is a story waiting to unfold. From the initial point of contact to the final handshake, track your leads seamlessly. This holistic view ensures you’re always a step ahead, anticipating needs and addressing concerns.

2. Prioritize with Precision –
   “The key is not to prioritize what’s on your schedule, but to schedule your priorities.” – Stephen Covey

   Not all leads are created equal. SellingLane’s lead scoring mechanism evaluates leads on various parameters, ensuring you channel your energy where it matters most.

3. Pipeline Visualization –
   “Efficiency is doing things right; effectiveness is doing the right things.” – Peter Drucker

   SellingLane’s intuitive dashboard offers a bird’s-eye view of your sales pipeline, spotlighting areas of excellence and avenues for improvement.

4. Sales Automation –
   “The first rule of any technology used in a business is that automation applied to an efficient operation will magnify the efficiency.” – Bill Gates

   Why get bogged down with mundane tasks when our Business Software can automate them? From timely follow-up emails to appointment scheduling, let technology do the heavy lifting.

5. Performance Analytics
   “Without big data analytics, companies are blind and deaf, wandering out onto the web like deer on a freeway.” – Geoffrey Moore:

   SellingLane’s in-depth analytics provide a clear picture of your sales metrics, from conversion rates to sales cycles, empowering you to strategize effectively.

6. Selling Menu’s
   Our Business Software includes a wonderful selling menu system that allows you to show customers multiple choices and have them pick the one they want. Which makes the customer experience that much better and easier for an average person to sell on a consistent basis.

Extra Nuggets of Wisdom:

• Personal Touch –
  “A person’s name is to that person the sweetest and most important sound in any language.” – Dale Carnegie

  SellingLane equips you with detailed lead insights, enabling personalized outreach that resonates.

• Consistent Follow-ups –
  “Diligence is the mother of good luck.” – Benjamin Franklin

  SellingLane’s automated reminders ensure you’re always on your lead’s radar, enhancing deal closure chances.

• Nurturing Relationships –
  “Business is all about the customer: what the customer wants and what they get.” – Peter Drucker

  With SellingLane, nurture your leads by offering value-driven content and resources, laying the foundation for a lasting business relationship.

Final Thoughts: SellingLane is not just a tool; it’s a partner in your journey towards unparalleled sales success. Let SellingLane be your collaborator in this journey. Ready to transform your sales game? What are you waiting for, try for free today. 🚀🌟

Ah, the life of mobile hairdressers, barbers and stylists! Zipping from one location to another, transforming retirement homes into fashion runways, and turning private parties into glam fests. But let’s face it, while your scissors might be sharp, dealing with payments can sometimes be… well, hairy. 🙈

Enter SellingLane, the ultimate sidekick for mobile hairdressers. It’s like having your own personal assistant, but instead a $30 an hour, it’s $6 a month.

On-the-Go Payments? Snip-Snip Hooray! 💳✂️

With SellingLane, you can accept payments anywhere, anytime. Whether you’re in the cozy living room of Mrs. Smith at the retirement home or amidst the lively chatter of a bachelorette party, your payment solution is always at your fingertips. No more “I’ll pay you next time” or chasing down checks.

In the world of business, cash flow is the hairstyle, and SellingLane is the hairspray that keeps it perfectly in place.”

– Fictitious Hair Guru,

Safety First, Just Like That Hair Dye Patch Test! 🔒

SellingLane ensures that all transactions are secure. We understand that your client’s trust is as precious as that perfect hair color shade. So, while you focus on the highlights, we’ve got the security covered.

Instant Receipts: Because No One Likes Waiting… Except for Hair Masks 🕐

Once the payment is made, SellingLane instantly sends a receipt to your client. It’s faster than you can say “blow-dry”!

“Time is of the essence, especially when you have curlers on!”

– Sandy Welland, Ontario

Multiple Payment Options: More Choices than Hairdos! 💰

Cash, card, digital wallets – SellingLane supports them all. It’s like offering your clients an array of hairstyles; there’s something for everyone!

The Art of Route Planning for Mobile Hairdressers/Barbers

For mobile hairdressers, every snip, style, and shade is a testament to their craft. But beyond the scissors and hair dyes, there’s another crucial aspect that determines their success: route planning. Efficient route planning is the unsung hero behind every successful mobile hairdresser. It’s the difference between a day that flows seamlessly and one that feels like you’re caught in a never-ending tangle of traffic and time constraints.

Imagine this: You have back-to-back appointments across town. One at a bustling city center apartment, another at a serene suburban home, and yet another at a lively local retirement community. Without effective route planning, you risk running late, getting caught in traffic jams, or worse, missing appointments altogether. Such hiccups not only disrupt your schedule but can also tarnish your professional reputation. On the flip side, a well-planned route ensures punctuality, reduces fuel costs, and allows for unexpected delays, ensuring you arrive at each location calm, composed, and ready to work your magic. In essence, for mobile hairdressers, efficient route planning isn’t just about getting from point A to B; it’s about ensuring consistent, top-notch service, one client at a time.

The Magic of Menu Selling for Barbers and Hairstylists

Each client comes with their own set of preferences, needs, and hair dreams. But while individualized service is crucial, there’s also immense power in structured choice. Enter menu selling, a concept that’s revolutionizing the way barbers and hairstylists operate.

Menu selling, at its core, is about offering clients a clear set of choices. Think of it as a curated list, much like a restaurant menu, where each option is designed to cater to different needs and budgets. For hairstylists, this could mean a simple breakdown: a ‘cut only’ for the quick trims, a ‘wash and cut’ for those looking for a fresh feel, or a comprehensive ‘color, wash, and cut’ for a complete makeover.

Here’s why this approach is a game-changer:

1. Clarity for Clients: With a clear menu, clients know exactly what they’re getting. There’s no ambiguity, no surprise costs. They can choose a service that aligns with their needs and budget.
2. Efficiency: By knowing in advance what the client wants, hairstylists can allocate their time more efficiently. If it’s just a trim, they can slot in another appointment right after. If it’s a color job, they can prepare in advance.
3. Upselling Opportunities: A well-structured menu can subtly encourage clients to opt for additional services. For instance, a client coming in for just a cut might consider a wash as well when they see it as a combo option.
4. Professional Image: Presenting services in a menu format exudes professionalism. It shows clients that the hairstylist or barber is organized, transparent, and values their time.

In your business, trends change with the wind, but menu selling offers a way to keep a touch of stability and structure. It’s a win-win, ensuring clients get the best service tailored to their needs, while hairstylists can optimize their time and skills. So, the next time a client walks in, instead of the usual “What are we doing today?”, imagine the impact of presenting them with a menu of choices, each tailored to make them look and feel their best. 🌟✂️📋

A Digital Storefront for Mobile Hairstylists: Your Business Website

In today’s digital age, having an online presence isn’t just an option; it’s a necessity. For mobile hairstylists, who are always on the move, this is even more crucial. The website feature of Selling Lane offers a perfect solution. Think of it as your digital business card, portfolio, and appointment booker, all rolled into one.

With Selling Lane, mobile hairstylists get a sleek, professional website that’s easy to set up and manage. Showcase your work, list your services, and even allow clients to book appointments directly through the site. No more missed calls or back-and-forth texts. Plus, with the added advantage of being mobile-optimized, clients can access your site, check your availability, and book their next appointment, all from the convenience of their smartphone. It’s a game-changer for hairstylists on the go, ensuring you’re always connected, always accessible, and always ready to make the next client look fabulous. 💇‍♀️📱🌐

Final Brushstrokes 🖌️

Staying a cut above the rest (pun intended) is no mere snip of the scissors. 🤭💇‍♂️ That’s why you need Selling Lane: your personal magic wand, or should we say comb, in this ever-tousling trade. 🪄✨

Beyond just a robust CRM that acts as your trusty sidekick, nurturing client relationships into Rapunzel-level tales, Selling Lane ensures every payment is as smooth as a freshly waxed leg, thanks to integrated invoicing. 🦵✨ And don’t even get us started on the route optimization—let’s just say even Cinderella wouldn’t be late to the ball. 🕰️🎉

But why stop there? The pièce de résistance is the game-changing menu selling system. Let clients tailor-make their transformations, while your skills get the spotlight they deserve with a swanky website feature. Dive, no, swan dive into Selling Lane, and ensure you’re not just setting trends, but also making sure the competition is hair today, gone tomorrow! ✂️💥

So, want to be the mane attraction? Glide over to Selling Lane and witness the metamorphosis from everyday hairstylist to industry wizard. ✨🎩

Like it or not, Business ERP systems are notoriously complicated. Unnecessarily complicated. My father, the greatest salesman in my opinion, used to call it, “an amorphous mass of undo-ability.”

Complication causes confusion, and some software companies fail to recognize that efficiency isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a lifeline for your business. As your business grows, the complexity of operations can become overwhelming. Enter the ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) system, sometimes just called CRM, a unified software solution designed to streamline and automate business processes. But what exactly should a small business look for in an ERP system? It’s not what you think!

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Business ERP Feature 1: Invoicing and Link to Pay

Accounting is the Heartbeat of Business, and getting paid is the blood

Jude Campbell CEO of Selling Lane

ERP systems are often seen as complex and expensive, but they can be a valuable tool for businesses of all sizes. Here are the five pillars of business ERP, explained in a nutshell:

The Power of Efficient Invoice and Payment Processing

The way businesses handle invoices and payments can significantly impact their success. Efficient invoice and payment processing is more than just a back-office function; it’s a critical component that can influence customer satisfaction, cash flow, and the overall health of a business. Here’s a deeper dive into its importance:

• Streamlined Cash Flow: Efficient invoicing ensures that businesses send out accurate bills promptly. When combined with a smooth payment processing system, it ensures quicker payments, reducing the time between delivering a service and getting paid. This timely inflow of cash is vital for maintaining a healthy cash flow.
• Enhanced Customer Experience: Nobody likes to deal with complicated invoices or cumbersome payment methods. A clear, concise invoice and a straightforward payment process can enhance the customer experience. It reduces confusion, minimizes the chances of disputes, and ensures that customers can settle their bills with ease.
• Reduced Administrative Burden: Automated and efficient systems reduce the manual effort involved in generating invoices, tracking them, and processing payments. This not only saves time but also minimizes the chances of human errors, which can lead to costly mistakes or disputes.
• Real-time Reporting and Analytics: Modern invoicing and payment processing systems often come with analytics tools. Businesses can get real-time insights into their financials, track pending payments, and forecast cash flow, enabling them to make informed decisions.
• Security: With the rise in cyber threats, the security of financial transactions is paramount. Efficient payment processing systems prioritize security, ensuring that customer data is protected and transactions are secure. This not only safeguards the business but also builds trust with customers.
• Flexibility and Multiple Payment Options: Today’s customers expect multiple payment options, be it credit cards, digital wallets, bank transfers, or even cryptocurrencies. An efficient system can accommodate these varied methods, offering flexibility to customers and ensuring that businesses don’t miss out on sales due to payment constraints.
• Environmental and Cost Benefits: Digital invoicing and payment processing are not only efficient but also eco-friendly. By reducing the need for paper invoices, businesses can cut down on costs and contribute to environmental conservation.
• Improved Vendor and Supplier Relations: Just as businesses invoice their customers, they also receive invoices from vendors and suppliers. An efficient payment processing system ensures that these invoices are paid on time, fostering trust and building strong business relationships.
• Scalability: As businesses grow, the volume of invoices and payments can increase exponentially. An efficient system can scale with the business, ensuring that the increased volume doesn’t lead to inefficiencies or bottlenecks.
• Regulatory Compliance: With financial transactions come regulatory requirements. Efficient systems ensure that businesses remain compliant, be it in terms of taxes, financial reporting, or adhering to payment standards.

In the grand scheme of business operations, invoice and payment processing might seem like mundane tasks. However, their efficiency and effectiveness can have ripple effects throughout a business. By prioritizing these processes, businesses can ensure smooth operations, satisfied customers, and robust financial health.

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Business ERP Feature 2: Customer Relationship Management (CRM)

The purpose of a business is to create a customer who creates customers.

Shiv Singh

In today’s hyper-connected world, where choices abound, and brand loyalty is fickle, understanding and managing customer relationships isn’t just important—it’s the bedrock of sustainable business growth. The age-old adage, “The customer is king,” has never been truer. But how do businesses ensure that the king remains loyal to their kingdom?

Enter the CRM (Customer Relationship Management) module, a vital component of any comprehensive Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system. Here’s a deeper dive into the transformative power of a well-implemented CRM:

• Tracking Customer Interactions: Every touchpoint, whether it’s a casual inquiry, a sales call, or post-purchase feedback, is an opportunity to understand your customer better. A CRM system meticulously logs these interactions, ensuring that no detail, however minute, is overlooked.
• Lead Management: In the sales funnel, leads are potential gold mines. But not all leads are created equal. A CRM helps in segmenting and prioritizing these leads, ensuring that efforts are directed where they’re most likely to yield results.
• Ensuring Timely Follow-ups: Timing is often the difference between a lead turning cold and a successful conversion. Automated reminders and follow-up schedules ensure that you’re always a step ahead, reaching out to potential clients at the optimal moment.
• Building Long-term Relationships: A CRM isn’t just about making a sale; it’s about building a relationship. By understanding customer preferences, purchase histories, and feedback, businesses can tailor their offerings, making clients feel valued and understood.
• Data-driven Insights: With a plethora of data at their fingertips, businesses can derive actionable insights. Which marketing campaign worked best? Which product is a hit in a particular demographic? A CRM provides answers, guiding future strategies.

ERP Feature 3: Menu Selling System

Why a Menu Selling System Simplifies Decision-Making for Buyers

The way products or services are presented can make all the difference. Enter the menu selling system – a structured approach that not only streamlines the sales process but also simplifies decision-making for buyers. Here are the top reasons why:

• Clear Presentation of Options: Unlike traditional selling where options can be overwhelming, a menu selling system lays out choices in a clear, organized manner. This clarity reduces confusion and helps buyers understand their options better.
• Tiered Choices: Often, menu selling presents products or services in tiers, allowing buyers to quickly gauge what’s basic, intermediate, or premium. This tiered approach helps buyers align their choices with their budget and needs.
• Reduced Overwhelm: By presenting a curated set of options, menu selling prevents information overload. Buyers aren’t bombarded with too many choices, making the decision process less daunting.
• Transparent Pricing: With each option or tier, the pricing is clearly indicated. This transparency ensures there are no hidden costs, and buyers can make informed decisions based on their financial considerations.
• Faster Decision-Making: Since options are clearly laid out and easy to compare, buyers can make decisions faster. They don’t need to sift through heaps of information or ask numerous questions to understand what’s on offer.
• Builds Trust: A straightforward, transparent menu selling system can enhance trust. Buyers appreciate knowing that they’re getting a fair deal without the typical sales runaround.
• Facilitates Upselling: With a clear view of what each tier or option offers, buyers can easily see the value in higher-tiered products or services, making them more receptive to upsells.
• Personalized Experience: Many menu selling systems allow for customization. Buyers can start with a base option and add on specific features or services they want, leading to a more personalized buying experience.
• Consistency in Sales: For businesses, menu selling ensures that every customer gets a consistent sales pitch. This consistency can enhance the brand’s reputation and ensure that all customers are aware of the full range of options available.
• Educates the Buyer: A well-structured menu selling system can also serve as an educational tool, informing buyers about products or services they might not have been aware of.

In conclusion, a menu selling system isn’t just a tool for businesses to enhance their sales process; it’s a strategy that respects and empowers the buyer. By simplifying choices, providing transparency, and facilitating a more personalized buying experience, menu selling turns the often-dreaded decision-making process into a smooth, enjoyable journey.

ERP Feature 4: GTD Style Task Management

The key is not to prioritize what’s on your schedule, but to schedule your priorities.

Stephen Covey

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems are designed to integrate and streamline various business processes across an organization. While they traditionally focused on core functions like finance, HR, and manufacturing, many times they forget the importance of task management. Here’s why task management is an indispensable component of a modern Business ERP system:

• Unified Workflow: Business ERP systems aim to create a seamless flow of information across departments. By integrating task management, businesses can ensure that tasks related to various functions, from procurement to customer service, are aligned, tracked, and executed efficiently.
• Enhanced Productivity: With a centralized task management system, employees can prioritize their tasks, set deadlines, and allocate resources more effectively. This reduces the time spent on manual coordination and boosts overall productivity.
• Real-time Monitoring: Integrated task management allows managers and team leaders to monitor task progress in real-time. They can quickly identify bottlenecks, reassign tasks if necessary, and ensure that projects stay on track.
• Improved Collaboration: In large organizations, tasks often require input from multiple departments. An Business ERP system with task management facilitates cross-departmental collaboration by providing a platform where teams can share updates, documents, and feedback.
• Resource Optimization: By having a clear view of all tasks and their requirements, businesses can allocate resources more effectively. This ensures that no team is overburdened while others are underutilized.
• Data-Driven Decision-Making: Integrated task management provides valuable data on task completion rates, team performance, and project timelines. This data can inform strategic decisions, helping businesses optimize processes and improve efficiency.
• Reduced Errors: Manual task management can lead to oversights and errors. By automating and integrating this function into an ERP system, businesses can reduce the chances of tasks being overlooked or duplicated.
• Enhanced Customer Service: With streamlined task management, customer-related tasks such as order processing, service requests, and complaint resolution can be handled more swiftly. This leads to improved customer satisfaction.
• Scalability: As businesses grow, the volume and complexity of tasks can increase. An Business ERP system with integrated task management can easily scale to accommodate this growth, ensuring that the business continues to operate smoothly.
• Holistic View: One of the primary benefits of an ERP system is that it provides a holistic view of business operations. By including task management, businesses can gain insights into the granular day-to-day tasks that, in aggregate, drive the company’s success.

Remember, effective task management is not just about ticking off tasks from a list; it’s about ensuring that the tasks you’re focusing on are the ones that move you closer to your goals.

While ERP systems offer a broad range of functionalities, the inclusion of task management is pivotal. It not only ensures the smooth execution of daily operations but also provides insights and tools that can drive a business’s strategic growth. In today’s competitive landscape, where agility and efficiency are paramount, task management within an ERP system is not just an add-on; it’s a necessity.

Business ERP Feature 5: Business Website Builder.

Building a website is laying the cornerstone of your digital empire.

Chris Ducker

Combining your business website with your main software makes everything run smoother and offers great perks. Here are five reasons why they should be together

• All in One Place: Having your website and Business ERP together means all your business info is in one spot. No more jumping between systems to get things done.
• Better for Customers: When everything’s connected, customers can see up-to-date product info, track their orders, and manage their accounts easily. It’s all about making things smooth for them.
• Faster Order Handling: Orders from your website go straight into your system, making the whole process of selling and shipping quicker and less complicated.
• Easy-to-See Business Info: With everything in one system, you can quickly see how your business is doing, from website visits to sales numbers.
• Saves Money: Instead of paying for and managing two separate systems (one for your website and one for everything else), you have everything together, which is simpler and more cost-effective.

In short, combining your website with your ERP system makes running your business smoother, better for your customers, and can save you money. It’s like having a Swiss Army knife for your business needs!

Final Thoughts: The Power of Integration

An Business ERP system isn’t just about individual components; it’s about how they seamlessly integrate to offer a holistic view of your business operations. For small businesses, this integration is the key to agility, adaptability, and growth. With the right ERP system, like Selling Lane’s comprehensive suite, small businesses are not just surviving—they’re thriving.

Remember, in the world of business, standing still is moving backward. Equip your business with the tools it needs to move forward, faster.

Why Your CRM Absolutely, Undeniably MUST Be Mobile-Friendly 📲

Hello Digital Nomads, Road Warriors, and even those Couch Entrepreneurs! 🛋️

In the age of constant movement and the blur of the digital revolution, your Customer Relationship Management (CRM) tool being stuck on a desktop is like having a sports car with no wheels – looks great, but can’t take you places! 🏎️💨

1. Mobility is the New Norm

I don’t know anybody who doesn’t check their phone at least 10 times an hour, especially Solopreneurs and entrepreneurs. Just like you wouldn’t wear flared jeans in 2023 (or would you? 🤨), a CRM system that isn’t mobile-friendly is outdated. Whether you’re on the go, in the trenches working like a dog, or taking a much-deserved mini-vacay, you want to be able to check in on your leads, sales, and clients anytime, anywhere.

2. Always Synced, Never Left Behind 🔄

In a fast-paced world, synchronization is paramount. A mobile-friendly CRM ensures that any changes, additions, or updates made on the go are automatically synced across all platforms. No more “Oops, I updated it on my laptop but forgot to do it on the desktop.” This seamless sync ensures your team is always on the same page, no matter where they are or which device they’re using. After all, nobody wants to dance to outdated tunes at the CRM party! 💃🕺

3. Improved Work-Life Balance (Yes, Really!) 🌅

With a mobile-friendly CRM, you’re not shackled to your desk. Need to head out early for your kid’s recital or that yoga class you’ve been meaning to try? Go for it! With the power of mobile CRM, you can manage your tasks from anywhere, allowing you that flexibility to blend work and life in harmony. Remember, a happy you means a more productive you. And we could all use a little more Zen in our daily hustle, right? 🧘‍♂️🧘‍♀️

Still On the Fence? Try Selling Lane 🤨

Just think about the empowerment and flexibility a mobile CRM offers. Why be limited when the world is your oyster? Dive deeper into the realm of boundless possibilities with SellingLane.com. Your future self will thank you!

4. Efficiency is King, Queen, and the Whole Royal Court 👑

Having access to your CRM on your mobile isn’t just about convenience; it’s about productivity. Address queries, pull up records, and make those crucial decisions instantly, without the “I’ll do it when I’m back in the office” delay.

5. Better Customer Engagement = Bigger 💰

Ever had an impromptu meeting or a chance run-in with a potential client? With a mobile-friendly CRM, your client data is right there in your pocket. Impress them with how much you remember (Thank you, CRM) and seal that deal!

6. Calls Anytime, Anywhere – Literally! 📞

Never again miss a lead or an opportunity. Your mobile-friendly CRM means even if you’re in the line for the world’s best tacos 🌮, you’re still in business mode.

7. Embrace The “Notification Nation” 📣🌍

Let’s face it: in today’s digital age, we’re all a part of “Notification Nation”. Those tiny pings from our devices that tell us someone’s liked our photo, or that our food delivery is around the corner. But why stop there? A mobile-friendly CRM can shoot you real-time notifications about important leads, client updates, or urgent tasks. No more missing out on that crucial client email or forgetting about that super-important follow-up. When your CRM’s mobile, you’re always in the loop, ensuring you stay ahead of the game, one ping at a time. 📲💥

Your Mission is Clear ✨

Alright, you movers and shakers, the ball is in your court. A mobile CRM is not just a want – it’s a need. And if you’re looking for the creme de la creme of mobile CRMs, your search ends here. Dive into SellingLane.com and let the future begin.

Go mobile, go big!

• Go to Selling Lane CRM : http://sellinglane.com/
• Click on the Free Trial Icon:

• Use the Register with Google button or
• Answer the four questions, First name, last name, email, business name
• and you’re done

Short explanation video, on how to register for Selling Lane