Managing a Client Database
On this page you will learn more about how to maximise the contacts that you have gathered over time.
Value of a client database
Client database options
Increasing your database of clients
Finishing your marketing plan
Value of a client database
Marketing is a numbers game. The more good quality leads who are aware of your services, the more work you are likely to get. It is vital therefore, that you manage all the contacts you have gathered from your marketing and networking activities in a systematic way.
Client database options
Someone who manages a simple spreadsheet with their clients' and potential clients' details in a systematic way is likely to do a lot better than a disordered approach to using an expensive Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system. Whatever your system, the fundamental points are the same:
- keep all your clients' details in one place
- make the efort to keep their details updated regularly
- have a place to record comments about the client
- rate your clients and put more attention on those that give you business
- categorise your clients in terms of what service you could provide them
Backups
The same principles of backing up your images apply to your database of clients. Make sure you have at least 3 backups of it.Full CRM options
If you want to use a full CRM system rather than a spreadsheet or address book system, then you could consider using Sugar CRM, a solid open source option or Salesforce, the Mercedes Benz of online CRMs.
Figure 1: SugarCRM is an open source option
Figure 2: Salesforce CRM has all the bells and whistles, but at a price
Increasing your database of clients
The more good potential leads you have, the better your chances of getting work. Make it your aim to maximise every opportunity to increase your database of potential clients - whether it means taking the time to enter the details from the business cards you pick up, or capturing the leads from e-mails and other lead-generating activities.
Finishing your marketing plan
Now that you have been through these marketing lessons you have covered the various elements of a marketing plan, you can go back and complete your own photography marketing plan. Then get started with making it happen!
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