I honestly think that most CRM systems should be better called PRM systems because they are not about Customer Relationship Management but rather about Prospect Relationship Management especially where we are not concerned about a continuing RELATIONSHIP with anyone. Most of these systems were developed for the hunters as opposed to the gatherers and really are not appropriate even for a 'land and expand' strategy which indeed calls for building a long lasting relationship.
CRM systems were made for handling large numbers of "customers" and building relationships can only be done well when we consider concentrated efforts on small numbers of customers.
You are right and the reason is that these CRM systems were not built for the purposes they are being used for.
Mike Schinkel
· 1 year ago
Maybe you'd be more accurate calling them "Prospect Management Systems", or "PMS" for short. Kinda has an ironic ring to it, no? '-)
Small Business Marketing
· 1 year ago
"Funny" U said it, not I. :)
Jess
· 1 year ago
Great points. With so many easy options for companies to start interacting with customers on a one on one level, there should be no excuse not to do so (facebook, blogs, email).
Every company uses CRM, using it more effectively can be the value proposition offered by your company, and its all at your finger tips.
great post.
Dave
· 1 year ago
As I blogged about a while back, too many use CRM to 'stalk' their prospects rather than create relationships with them.
Gregor
· 1 year ago
Don't these CRM experts remember what it was like when they were dating? Isn't the whole idea behind CRM building long lasting relationships? So, when has stalking ever resulted in a relationship? How do I react to companies that show off how much they 'know' about me? Exactly, bye-bye.
What's the solution? Ask me, involve me, fascinate and intrigue me, surprise me and make me feel special. Wow, that was difficult. How come companies just don't get it? Are they afraid to ask? Fear of rejection?
Food for thought: if I'm not interested, wouldn't you rather want to find out sooner than later? So you can focus on those who are interested?
All Comments
CRM systems were made for handling large numbers of "customers" and building relationships can only be done well when we consider concentrated efforts on small numbers of customers.
You are right and the reason is that these CRM systems were not built for the purposes they are being used for.
U said it, not I. :)
Every company uses CRM, using it more effectively can be the value proposition offered by your company, and its all at your finger tips.
great post.
Isn't the whole idea behind CRM building long lasting relationships? So, when has stalking ever resulted in a relationship? How do I react to companies that show off how much they 'know' about me? Exactly, bye-bye.
What's the solution? Ask me, involve me, fascinate and intrigue me, surprise me and make me feel special. Wow, that was difficult.
How come companies just don't get it? Are they afraid to ask? Fear of rejection?
Food for thought: if I'm not interested, wouldn't you rather want to find out sooner than later? So you can focus on those who are interested?