Leveraging Technology in Account Management: Tools and Strategies for Success
Looking for your new bestie? As a Client Account Manager, the right technology can be just that. And the best part is, there is plenty of amazing tech, tools and strategies to pick from!
Whether you're an Account Manager exploring new tools for success, or just looking for an upgrade, you're in the right place. Dive in, and let's unravel 3 tech tools and strategies you can use for success as a Client Account Manager!
CRM Systems
A Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system is an indispensable tool in the arsenal of an Account Manager. Close your eyes and envision a platform where every single piece of client information, from the very first conversation to the most recent service or offer sold, is neatly organized and accessible with a simple click. It's possible with strong CRMs such as Monday.com, Salesforce and Pipedrive! Comprehensive and unified space is what a CRM system offers, but its benefits stretch far beyond mere data storage.
As an Account Manager, you already know a strong bond with your client key to the success of your relationship. what drives success, and a CRM system is a busy Account Manager’s most reliable assistant, ensuring no important information is overlooked.
This means seemingly “small” gestures, such as sending timely birthday wishes or sharing relevant updates on a project, can significantly elevate your client experience and make them feel connected to your agency. Thi helps to build trust and long-lasting relationships! By maintaining and nourishing these personal touches, CRM systems pave the way for deeper, more meaningful client relationships.
CRM systems are also instrumental in upselling. With the vast array of contacts and opportunities that an Account Manager deals with, it becomes crucial to have a system in place that can efficiently track the journey of clients. From the initial stages of expressing interest to the final stages of closing a deal, CRM platforms provide Account Managers with a detailed roadmap and avenues to explore increased spending. This visibility allows for timely interventions, ensuring that potential leads are nurtured and cultivated, and no promising opportunity fades away unnoticed.
By automating various tasks such as data entry, lead tracking, and client communication, Account Managers can streamline and simplify operations and reduce the time spent on repetitive tasks, leading to higher productivity and reduced costs. Additionally, centralizing all information in one location ensures that anyone on the entire team can access the same, updated data, ultimately promoting collaboration and cohesion.
Project Management Tools
Project management tools are best described as the agency’s joints and ligaments. If the CRM forms the structural backbone of client relationships, it's project management tools that ensure efficiency in operations. Whether it's a singular account or a juggling act of several, these tools act as precision instruments ensuring perfection in execution. Think ClickUp, Asana, Monday.com, Trello, and so many more!
Collaboration is key to successful projects. The beauty of modern project management tools is the emphasis they place on real-time collaboration: a central hub where teams come together, discuss ideas and share insights. Whether it's a spur-of-the-moment chat about a client's preference or a shared document that demands collective attention, these tools ensure that everyone is on the same page, literally and figuratively.
Every project is a culmination of numerous tasks, each with its own deadlines and deliverables. Project management tools allow Client Account Managers to map out each task, assign them to the right team members, and set definitive deadlines. As each task is completed, it's like watching a city light up—one building at a time. It’s a beautiful thing!
Automation Solutions
Automation solutions for Account Managers are not about replacing the human touch, but about amplifying human efficiency.
Routine tasks often consume a significant chunk of your time. Why spend precious time and energy sending out monthly reports when automation can handle it with precision? Gone are the days of missing a follow-up with a client! Automated tools and automated reminders are set to ensure every action is carried out in a timely manner. By leveraging these tools, Account Managers not only streamline responsibilities but also enhance overall efficiency, making the best use of time and resources.
Automating project management templates and updates can be a total game-changer! For instance, by setting triggers to notify relevant parties when a task is complete, gone is the need to update each person, ensuring seamless communication, instant updates, and increased transparency.
Automating platform information sharing can centralize and streamline the dissemination of crucial data. By integrating these systems, data is automatically shared across platforms, reducing any errors and ensuring everyone has access to the most recent and relevant information at their fingertips.
Most importantly, the onboarding process for new clients often involves a set of rinse and repeat tasks. By automating this process, Account Managers can ensure that every new client receives consistent, timely, and comprehensive onboarding, setting the stage for a strong working relationship.
A significant component of onboarding often consists of tasks that are repeated for every new client. These might include:
Sending out welcome emails or packages.
Setting up initial meetings or calls.
Providing access to necessary software or platforms.
Gathering relevant information or documentation from the client.
Guiding clients through service deliverables.
When new clients experience a seamless and professional onboarding process, it significantly increases their trust and confidence. This positive first impression can translate into a more collaborative and effective working relationship in the long run. It also sets a precedent of efficiency and professionalism that clients will come to expect in all future interactions.
Being an Account Manager in 2023 is so exciting! You’re not just managing accounts, you're orchestrating a symphony of tech tools to create something magnificent.
Here’s how to leverage these wonders:
Integrate for Efficiency: Use tools that talk to each other. If your CRM can sync with your project management tool, you've just saved yourself a chunk of manual data entry.
Train Continuously: The tech world evolves rapidly. Regular training sessions ensure you stay ahead of the curve, maximizing the potential of each tool.
Feedback is Gold: Technology should simplify, not complicate. Regular feedback from your team can help identify what’s working and what's not. Adapt, evolve, and keep refining your tech suite.
Ultimately, technology in Account Management is not about replacing human touch, but refining it. By embracing these innovative tools and solutions, Account Managers not only streamline their operations, but elevate the client experience and ensure long lasting working relationships and retention.
Are you an Account Manager looking to leverage more technology in your day-to-day role? Enroll in our CAM Community to access all the same systems, tech, strategies and tools that we use every day in our agencies. You’ll also receive incredible ongoing support from our community of experienced Account Managers!