Sales Tools to Consider in 2010

It is the second decade of the 21st century. The economy is slow and business is a challenge. As we search for solutions, I suggest that we take another look at technology.

Technology, when optimized, can make our lives easier, more efficient and can deliver positive results. Most of us have computers, software, web sites and are technically hooked up. Or, are we? In reality, most of us are not getting the full benefit from our investment in technology.

The answer is to evaluate your existing systems and determine how you can improve usage, performance and results. I have been a CRM user for years, but continue to be amazed at features and functionality that I didn’t know about or did not use. I continue to press the envelope with my CRM, but have a feeling that there is a lot more that I can do with it.

An investment in technology that isn’t fully understood is not properly configured and improperly used is equivalent to leaving money on the table. I am fortunate to have a support system to keep my business technologies current and optimized. If you need a referral, contact me.

Cool Things to Consider in 2010

Video

An infomercial video could positively change things for your business. Of course, that is if it is well done. You would be surprised at how affordable a professionally produced short video can be. Once completed, it can be viewed from your website, can be burned to DVD and distributed and can even be a hyper link on your e-mail signature line. If you have a great message, a professional video infomercial can put you over the top in 2010.

Audio

The next best thing to video is an audio commercial that can also run from your website, can be distributed on disc and can be hyperlinked to your e-mail signature. A professionally written and produced audio commercial will make your phone ring.

CRM

You may currently use a form of CRM software to manage your database and your business, but I can assure you that few salespeople or businesses are getting the maximum benefit from CRM. Ramping up the use of your current CRM or moving to a more powerful CRM platform will pay big rewards. I suggest a CRM assessment. This is clearly a “you don’t know what you don’t know” issue.

The Internet

Like CRM, most salespeople or businesses are not getting the most from the Internet, although they have made some type of investment. The World Wide Web is a terrific business tool that needs to be optimized for your business.


Websites

A great website, full of features and functionality provides a competitive advantage to sales and business. A poorly engineered, dated, website (or no website) can and will work against you. This isn’t about spending the most money; it is about getting the best website and outcomes for you and your company.

Internet Marketing Tools

Internet marketing tools, like the one I use to deliver this newsletter to you, are powerful outreach systems that can be used and managed by ordinary people and produce extraordinary results, including analytic reports that help you determine who responds to your message. An important consideration is ease of use and its ability to work with your CRM. This is a very important consideration.

Web Analytics

Web Analytics provide you with valuable information, business intelligence about who, when and why people visit your website. Analytics are your Internet website’s eyes and ears. There is some skill required to set up analytics. Once in place, analytics are easy to use and deliver valuable business intelligence.

E-Commerce

If you sell products, e-commerce is a good move. Selling things on the Internet is a main stream thing to do in 2010. There isn’t any down side. The Internet is always open for business and has no practical limits. If linked to your accounting and inventory control software e-commerce is a powerful, optimized business tool to increase sales and grow your business. This option will work best with the guidance of a trusted advisor.

Inventory Control Software

If selling products, the three things that most companies have in common are lack of tight inventory control, disparate business systems and are unsure of their cost of doing business. Get help to evaluate and fix these three prevalent business problems. An investment here can potentially deliver big returns. Making money is about selling more, but it is also about running a better operation.

Ad Words, Pay-Per-Click

This will take more than a paragraph to explain, but there is a way to attract buyers to your website by bidding and paying when Internet surfers click on your words and visit your website. This is very tricky and can be a disaster, but when correctly implemented “Ad Words” can drive a lot of business.

Social Media Sites

Last, but not least…social media is quickly emerging as an important tool for personal and business communication and promotion. Surveys tell us that LinkedIn is the best tool for business development. It’s a business to business tool to meet new people and leverage your existing relationships. It’s free and easy to use.

In Summary

I could go on, but won’t. If you are determined to make 2010 your best business year in memory, consider upgrading your technology tools and systems. And by all means don’t try to do it on your own. There a lot of educated and experienced professionals who are ready, willing and able to help you. Take advantage of the help.