Tip #2: CRM isn't software - it's CULTURE
Tip 2: CRM isn't software - it's CULTURE
Customer Relationship Management systems for managing your donors, volunteers, fundriasers, and all your working relationships, can get very technical. But if you concentrate on the software, you're missing out.
My tip for today is to think of CRM not as that one piece of software you're paying quite a bit for, and aren't sure you're making the most of, but instead as a culture that you need to embed in your organisation. That's how real change happens.
If you approach CRM as a tool some people have access to, and depend on it to tell you how to work, you'll always be dictated by the whims of the software company behind it. Instead, forget the software for a bit, and take a look at how you work.
For example: Does every employee who has contact with your volunteers know that volunteers are often recruited from donors? That they could talk to your fundraising people to see which donors might consider volunteering.
Think of the relationships within your organisation first, before your Customer Relationships. It will positively impact on how you use CRM software, and ensure it doesn't become an expensive white elephant.
So from our example, ensure that both teams have access, and are adding their information to your CRM. Ensure they're aware what the others are recording, and let them suggest changes to make the most of the information you are collecting.
Go and build some relationships today.
PS. Watch out for an important Charity Technology update tomorrow!
Until next time,
Kevin
Looking for support with your small charity's E-Learning, CRM, or Web & SEO? Find out more about my consultancy for small charities, and get in touch for a chat.