When it comes to selecting a CRM, the demo is a crucial step in the decision-making process. It is your chance to evaluate whether the system is a good fit for your organization and to address any concerns or questions. But preparation is crucial for big decisions. Here are five essential things to keep in mind before and during your CRM demo to ensure you get the most out of the experience.
(1) Prepare a List of Key Questions in Advance
Your CRM demo isn't just a presentation—it's an opportunity to get answers to your most pressing questions. Take the time to engage your team early in the process to collect their thoughts and concerns. This does two things: first, it helps you figure out what's truly important before speaking with a CRM provider. Second, it makes your team feel involved in the decision, which can help with buy-in later on.
Before your demo, gather your team's input and come prepared with a list of specific questions. These might include things like:
How does the CRM integrate with our current systems?
What is the typical implementation timeline?
What kind of training and support is available?
The more prepared you are with targeted questions, the more focused and productive your demo will be.
(2) Include Key Stakeholders in the Demo
A CRM can impact many areas of your organization, so it’s vital to have all the right people in the room during the demo. Bringing key stakeholders from different departments ensures that you’re getting a comprehensive evaluation of the CRM’s capabilities.
For instance, your finance director might want to know how the CRM integrates with accounting software, while your communications manager may be more interested in how it handles email campaigns. If you’re involved in fundraising, understanding how the CRM can manage donations is important.
By including these individuals in the CRM demo, you will ensure that all the bases are covered in your evaluation.
(3) Be Fully Present During the Demo
In today’s busy world, it’s easy to let distractions take over, even during important meetings. But when it comes to your CRM demo, it's crucial to be fully present. This isn't the time to keep one eye on your email or answer phone calls.
Commit to the CRM demo by shutting down other channels and focusing your attention. There are key concepts in the CRM world that deserve your undivided attention, and missing out on them could mean overlooking important benefits or potential pitfalls.
If you’re fully engaged during the CRM demo, you’ll be in a better position to assess how the CRM can benefit your organization.
(4) Don’t Be Afraid of Asking Questions
We’ve all heard the phrase, “There’s no such thing as a silly question,” yet many of us still hesitate to ask them. But in the world of CRM, where systems can be complex and technical, asking questions is essential.
No matter how basic your question may seem, it's important to get the answers you need to make an informed decision. Don’t be afraid to ask about integration details, user interfaces, or support processes. You might even use this time to get advice from the CRM provider on best practices or customization options.
CRM providers are there to help, so bring all your questions to the table, no matter how small or out-of-the-box they may seem.
(5) Trust Your Instincts
When you’re making a big decision, it’s easy to get caught up in the data and logic. But don’t ignore your gut feeling. While facts and figures are important, your intuition can also be a powerful guide.
During the demo, tune into how you’re feeling. Are there any areas that make you uneasy? Are your concerns being addressed? Don’t Ignore it if something feels wrong. Dig deeper and ask more questions until you feel comfortable.
You don’t want to leave the demo with unanswered questions or lingering doubts. Take the time to have a full and open conversation with the CRM provider so that you can walk away feeling confident in your decision.
Conclusion: Prepare for Success with LionO360
Choosing a CRM is a big step, and the demo is your opportunity to make sure you're on the right path. By preparing ahead of time, involving the right stakeholders, staying focused, asking questions, and trusting your gut, you can make the most of this important process.
Remember, this decision will impact your organization for years to come. With LionO360, you have a partner dedicated to helping you get the customized CRM solution that’s the perfect fit for your unique needs. Take the time to do it right, and you’ll be well on your way to success with LionO360 by your side.
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