This is Why Sales People Need A Second CRM!
Your WORK CRM belongs to your company. But in most cases, employers, do not allow staff to keep their customer base after they leave or get terminated/downsized.
For Example, during Covid way too many automotive sales people experienced this inequity in the workplace, employees were laid off, and in some cases not allowed to return, only to find themselves without access to their valuable customers.
You Have The Right to Work in Your Field and Location
This conversation is somewhat controversial because employers will say, “The customers are ours.” That they spent the advertising dollars, and the branding dollars to bring those buyers into the dealership, real estate agency or sales organization. But in many cases, the customers are cultivated by the actual sales people, they are your referrals, and customers that you have generated with your hard-earned talent.
But in reality, it is not fair or even legal to impose Undue hardship on an employee: Courts will consider the potential hardship imposed on the terminated employee when evaluating the enforceability of a non-compete agreement. If the agreement imposes an unreasonable burden on the employee’s ability to earn a livelihood or pursue their chosen profession, it may be deemed unenforceable.
This was the case with thousands of employees across the country who lost their careers due to Covid. And it’s still happening to this day with the large series of downsizing layoffs happening across the country, especially in the tech field. Employers, in many cases, have forced sales people to switch careers or even sell products they don’t understand, or have no history with.
Legal Precedent, Protecting Sales People After Losing Their Sales Job.
While we are not attorneys, there are many examples where the courts took the side of the salesperson, because of undue hardship. Some examples include, Reliable Fire Equipment Co. v. Arredondo, 965 NE 2d 393 – Ill: Supreme Court 2011 and C.A. Hull Co. v. Varnum and Henry Schein, Inc. v. Cook (New York, 2018). In the latter, the court determined that the agreement was indeed overly restrictive for a salesperson like Cook. The geographic area covered multiple states, making it difficult for Cook to find employment in his industry without relocating.
The court concluded that the non-compete agreement imposed an undue hardship
Case: Henry Schein, Inc. v. Cook (New York, 2018)
Most Business CRM’s Block Salespeople From Downloading Their Customer’s Database
In reviewing the top Automotive CRM companies give employers the ability to prevent salespeople from downloading their customers. Companies such as, DealerSocket CRM, VinSolutions Connect CRM, ELEAD1ONE CRM, AutoRaptor CRM, Dealertrack DMS and even our CRM, Selling Lane, give the primary user Admin the ability to block “export to CSV.” And most HR managers will prevent employees from downloading the database when they know that they are about to terminate an employee. This is common practice and is usually part of the exit process.
But again, who owns the customers is always the question. Especially if you brought the customers to the business in the first place.
Protect Your Most Valuable Asset with a Personal CRM from Selling Lane
Introduction: Your Customers, Your Future
In the world of sales, your customer base is your most valuable asset. It’s the foundation of your business, the key to your success, and the gateway to your future. But are you doing enough to protect it? Whether you’re an automotive salesperson, a real estate agent, or a sales professional in another field, having a second, personal CRM is the best way to safeguard your customer base. Here’s why.
1. Independence: Your Business, Your Rules
My dad always said, that being a sales person was like being a solo entrepreneur, the best sales people always run their business as if they own it. Like a farmer who rents a stall at a farmers market. The business is the farmers, the marketplace is the farmers market. Sales people who think independently tend to produce larger sales portfolios over the course of their careers, no matter how many companies they work for.
When you have your own personal CRM, you’re not tied to the systems provided by your dealership, real estate agency, or company. This means you can move between companies without losing your valuable customer data. Your relationships stay with you, giving you the freedom to control your own destiny.
2. Customer Loyalty: Building Strong Relationships
A personal CRM allows you to track every interaction with your customers, from the initial contact to the final sale and beyond. This helps you build strong, lasting relationships, which are key to earning repeat business and referrals.
3. Efficiency: Streamline Your Workflows
With a personal CRM, you can automate many of your daily tasks, such as following up with leads, scheduling appointments, and sending out marketing emails. This saves you time and allows you to focus on what you do best: selling.
4. Insights: Know Your Customers
A personal CRM provides valuable insights into your customers’ needs and preferences. This information can help you tailor your sales approach, improving your chances of closing deals.
5. Professionalism: Impress Your Customers
Using a personal CRM shows your customers that you’re organized, professional, and committed to providing excellent service even if your company is not there for them. This can enhance your reputation and help you stand out in a crowded market.
Conclusion: Take Control of Your Success with a Personal CRM
In the fast-paced world of sales, a personal CRM is not just a tool; it’s a necessity. It gives you the independence, efficiency, and insights you need to take your sales to the next level. So, why wait? Start exploring the benefits of a personal CRM today with Selling Lane. Sign up for a free trial and see how we can help you protect your most valuable asset: your customer base.
More on the topic of having a personal CRM
-10 Reasons Salespeople Must Have a Private CRM
-Salespeople and Real Estate Agents Need Their Own Personal CRM?