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5 Core Technologies Every Business Needs
Business owners find themselves overwhelmed with the vast options around technology.
I can’t tell you how many times I find that a new client has way too much technology.
Oftentimes it’s duplicating efforts or they are overspending.
And then there’s the other side...the business owners who don’t have any of the key core technologies. I ask them, “what CRM are you using?” and I get a blank stare back.
“What’s a CRM”, they say?
My response is WOW….you are leaving a gold mine of opportunities on the table!
...So what are the core technologies you actually need?
I’ve narrowed it down to 5 core technologies you MUST consider for long term success.
#1 CRM
What is a CRM? A CRM is a customer relationship management tool. It allows you to track notes, meetings, demographic details, birthdays and information. You can track this for every single prospect, client and partner for your business. You can even use it to keep in touch with friends and family.
Why do I need one? A CRM allows you to keep important details about prospective clients. You can even use it with close friends so you don’t forget to keep in touch. It also reminds you to keep in touch with them. And you set the frequency for every relationship type.
And this is the tip of the iceberg. If you want to learn more, we should hop on a call because we could spend a whole hour on the power of this tool alone.
Which CRM should I use? I recommend Cloze as it’s easy to use without a lot of training needed. It’s affordable too. You can also look into Monday, Zoho, or Active Campaign. There is a wide variety to select from.
#2 Email Marketing
What is Email Marketing? Email marketing is a tool that allows you to manage the contacts in your email list. You can tag contacts with labels that allow you to differentiate them. For example, met at a health fair in 2021, new client 2020, prospect or partner. Your list is the backbone of your business. It is critical that you nurture your list.
Oftentimes, sales don’t occur until the 8th ask. Adding continuous value to your list allows you to stay top of mind, build trust and add value. This will make building deeper relationships much easier.
Why do you need it? If you are trying to build your business, you need email marketing. If you are building referrals and partnerships, you need email marketing. Otherwise, what’s the point of having the list?
Don't be that business who builds a lead magnet and does nothing with it. Instead use your email marketing to help those leads grow and learn. Otherwise you are leaving a lot of money on the table.
Which email marketing tool should I use? I use Active Campaign. It’s affordable, has a great onboarding process and amazing support. I also have clients who use Constant Contact and Mail Chimp.
Make a list of exactly what you need for your email list. Write down how many people are in your current list. Then do the research on what’s best for your business.
#3 Online Scheduling
Make it simple for your prospects to reach you. And if you can, allow them to book their appointment through an online calendar.
What is an online scheduler/calendar? These tools allow you to build various appointments types. You can integrate your scheduler on your website. We want to make it easy for prospects and clients to book and manage their appointments online.
Why do I need one? If you don’t have one, you are likely missing out on a lot of sales. People are looking for convenience. If they need to pick up the phone to schedule an appointment, this is a barrier to entry. It’s too much work.
If you have a scheduler, this makes it easy and convenient. Schedulers have built in integrations with Zoom. If your service is a call, it sets everything up for you and emails the client with the login details. Iy sends text or email reminders too. It’s simple and will save you LOADS of time!
Which one should I use? I use Acuity. It has sophisticated and simple options. You can create various appointment types. You can include intake forms and even build subscription packages. You can ask for payment for services and integrate with stripe or PayPal. Another competitor to consider is calendly.
#4 Video Conferencing
Everyone is now all too familiar with the world of Zooming. Due to the pandemic we are all using these tools. Before, many business owners use video conferencing to streamline their business.
What is video conferencing? Video conferencing allows you to meet face to face over a computer, phone or tablet.
Solutions allow you to share your screen, chat, share resources and manage attendees. Examples include Zoom, Skype, GoToMeeting, Google Meet, etc.
Why do I need this? It is critical that we provide flexibility for our customers and staff members. Providing solutions online for services improves customer experience. Offering online solutions for training staff improves the company culture.
Having a video conference solution is an easy way to do a check in with a team member. It’s also a wonderful way to connect with clients between in person sessions.
Which one should I use? I use Zoom. Some businesses need to also consider HIPAA. And others need to consider security measures. These businesses may need to consider other video conferencing platforms. Be sure to follow legal regulations for your industry when making this choice.
#5 Payment Gateway
What is a Payment Gateway? A payment gateway is the technology that allows you to safely and securely process payments from customers online.
Why do I need this? If you intend to process any payments online, you need a payment gateway service.
You also need to make sure your website is secure (i.e. https:// is working and enabled). Consumers are savvy enough to know that if your website is not secure, they will not buy from it.
Which one should I use? I use PayPal and stripe. They are easy to use across many platforms. For example, Thinkific, Acuity and most core technologies integrate.
Be sure to understand the % the gateway takes and any other fees associated with using the service. Platforms like Etsy have an extra % on top of the payment gateway. Consider the overhead of any payment gateway when setting your price points.
What Core Solutions Are You Using?
I want to hear from you. What are your top 5 biz technology platforms?
What do you like most about them?
Need Support?
These are the core technologies that every business needs but there is always more. And it can be overwhelming to navigate even these 5.
If you need any help uncovering what technologies you need, let's hop on a call. I am here to help where I can.
Need more of a technical deep dive? Check out my resources page for more.
